A HISTORIC theatre group 'struggling to survive' is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year after overcoming financial battles.

Accrington Theatre Group was formed back in 1893 by Mr and Mrs Cronshaw and Mr J Hacking and the group is set to celebrate the landmark occasion after overcoming issues in recent years.

The volunteer-ran group were 'on the verge of bankruptcy' two years ago and last year held shows to raise enough money to keep them going.

Thanks to the success of the shows the the group are returning with their ‘Broadway at the Ballroom’ shows this month.

Howard Raw, who has been director with the group since 1979, said: "We're really looking forward to it, it should be a great show.

"We've been struggling to survive, the attendances in Hyndburn have been dwindling.

"The audience make up has changed, the cultural make up of Hyndburn is different.

"We've been on a shoe string budget.

"The shows are just to celebrate the anniversary, it's so we can raise money to put on future shows, we're running on a show to show basis.

"The group is a great way for people to come together and socialise, do something different, and enjoy theatre."

From ‘Les Cloche de Corneville’ in 1894 through to the ‘Addams Family’ in 2016 the society has been pleasing audiences in Accrington and Oswaldtwistle.

Mr Raw met his wife Wendy at the theatre group and said many friendships and relationships have been formed over the years.

He said some of the struggles the group have faced in recent years have stemmed from long-established committee members getting older and ultimately dying.

They plan to continue celebrations to mark their 125th anniversary with a gala later this year and a performance of 'The Full Monty' in November.

Despite the financial troubles Mr Raw is hopeful for the future of the group.

The 64-year-old said: "I think looking at the imminent future it's quite promising, but it's the long term.

"We are seeing an increasing number of young people take part this time.

"Without doubt this is a great thing, without young people coming forward we're not going to be able to keep putting on shows."

The latest shows will feature songs from the likes of Les Miserables, The Greatest Showman, South Pacific, Hairspray, Wicked and Beauty and the Beast, and will feature performers new and old.

Broadway at the Ballroom will take place at Accrington Town Hall on Saturday, May 12 at 7.30pm, tickets are £12.00 and include potato pie supper. It also takes place on Sunday 13th May at 4.30pm and includes Afternoon Tea. Visit hyndburnleisure.ticketsource.co.uk or call 01254 380293.