A FORMER alcoholic who turned her life around is set to take a starring role in a production of biblical proportions.

Gillian Thompson, from Accrington, will take centre stage as Mary Magdalene in the Easter story in an outside performance in Manchester next month.

Organised by non-profit community arts project, Manchester Passion, its aim is to help people who come from troubled backgrounds and gain confidence through dramatic arts and biblical theatre.

Other members of the 30-strong cast including Paul Harrison, 38, a former homeless man from Accrington, and Nakib Narat, from Blackburn.

Miss Thompson, 35, said she started drinking at the age of 12 but has been teetotal for seven years when she became religious.

She said: "My faith has really helped me get through some difficult parts of my life.

"This play is great for me because I have always been into writing and performing and now I've got the chance to combine two things I love.

"I have been in productions before at the Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre but this is a new challenge for me.

"I'm really excited to play Mary, she has a big part in the story.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for me and others in the group who have had troubled pasts to take part in an opportunity like this."

The performer also runs a creative writing group to help those with mental health and substance misuse issues.

Nearby schools were involved with decorating crosses that will be displayed across the security banners on the day of the performance.

Mr Narat, who plays the role of Pontius Pilate, said the cast had a strong bond with each other.

He said: "There's a really good mix of people in the story, from all sorts of backgrounds, troubled or not.

"We all learn from each other and help each other.

"I cannot wait to tell the Easter story as its such an important story and its one lots of people are aware of already.

"It's great because there are also a lot of non Christians taking part who are intrigued to learn and experience what the production has to offer."

The show will start on Saturday, April 8, at 2pm in the cathedral gardens in Victoria Street.

For more information visit www.manchesterpassion.org.