BACUP'S own homegrown opera star Sean Ruane helped to raise more than £2,000 for charity when he performed in his home town.

Sean, 33, topped the bill at the musical extravaganza at Bacup Leisure Hall last Saturday night and received a standing ovation from the 400-strong audience. The event had been organised by Councillor Jimmy Eaton to raise money to send the 2nd Rossendale Scout Group on a trip to Rossendale's twin town Bocholt.

There were also performances by popular local band Souled as Seen as well as soul-singers Sonia and Maurice, and music by top Manchester DJ Keith Fayne.