TOP actors from East Lancashire are backing a campaign to save the Octagon Theatre in Bolton.

Julie Hesmondhalgh, from Church, who plays Hayley in Coronation Street, and John McCardle, from Burnley, who has starred in Brookside and several other TV dramas, are taking part in a gala benefit on May 2.

They will be joined by a host of other stars including John's former Brookside colleague Sue Johnston and Naomi Radcliffe, who plays Alison in Coronation Street.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to helping clear the theatre's deficit of around £220,000, which is threatening the theatre's ability to put on its own productions.

The event has been organised by SCOT, the independent Support Campaign for the Octagon Theatre.

Tickets are on sale now, for a minimum donation of £12.50. They are available from the box office on 01204 520661.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.