OVER the years, actor John McArdle has become a firm favourite at the Bolton Octagon.

He’s 66 now and, ever since he stopped playing Billy Corkhill in Liverpool soap Brookside, he’s been making appearances at our famous local professional theatre.

He’s had many roles and it’s been a privilege to see him give some fine performances. He’s back in the town next month in An Enemy of the People.

John has become an Octagon patron and a strong supporter and he has many fans locally. He loves the closeness of the audience and the special atsmosphere, and Boltonians love him.