AN ARTISTIC director has been honoured for his unwavering commitment to theatre.

The management committee at Playhouse 2, in Shaw, has promoted Barrie Cottam to 'Life President' - a first for the theatre.

Mr Cottam has been involved with amateur dramatics group Crompton Stage Society since 1969.

He was first introduced to Playhouse 2 through his wife, Ann, an amateur actress, who helped him land his debut in 'The Other Cinderella'.

Mr Cottam said: "It was a complete surprise to be made Life President of Playhouse 2, I am truly honoured.

"I think that right now the society is the best it's ever been and that's down to the people involved. The camaraderie is just brilliant."

Mr Cottam lived in Brighton for a short spell before moving back up north when he found Playhouse 2 in an unfortunate state of affairs - the theatre, previously described by Oldham Council leader Jean Stretton as a 'jewel in the community', looked set to close.

Mr Cottam was asked to become the treasurer and a new chairman was appointed in a bid to save the venue.

Since 1989, Mr Cottam has helped direct plays and has since become the artistic director, a member of the gigs committee as well as working behind the bar and other roles.

He said: "These days the thing I love most is being an audience member. I still get excited when the lights go down and a play or a gig starts.

"Playhouse 2 has been such a big part of my life and I hope that it continues to be for a long time to come."

Barbara Micklethwaite, chairman of Crompton Stage Society, said: "Having a president is a first for Playhouse 2 and Crompton Stage Society, and we couldn’t have honoured a better person with the title than Barrie.

"He has dedicated so much of his time to the theatre in so many different capacities that when the idea was proposed to the management committee it was agreed immediately.

"To put it simply, Barrie Cottam is Playhouse 2."

For more information about the theatre visit www.playhouse2.org.