DIMINISHING funds and an increasingly ageing membership has seen a society bowing out of Bolton after 43 years.

Opera 74 is preparing to take its final curtain call after the music group announced on Sunday that it was folding.

Members will bow out at its annual Christmas 2 ‘til 4 with Opera 74 afternoon concert on November 27.

Chairman Michael Haslam said: “It has come down to money and membership.

“Numbers have dwindled and we haven’t been able to attract younger members. As membership went down it has also become increasing difficult to cover costs.

“It is sad but at the end of the day it has not been a difficult decision. We have known for a little while.

“It was set up with the mission of bringing opera to Bolton and has managed to do that 43 years.”

The group was established in 1974 by Margaret Lindsay and Michael Greenhalgh an initial plan to present early Operas.

Its first production was Gluck’s Orfeo and enjoyed a history of successful shows at Bolton Little Theate and later the Albert Halls with shows including Carmen and Offenbach’s Tales.

However with productions runs costing in the region of £8,000 to put on and £100 a week fore rehearsals, the society has lost money along the way.

Mr Haslam added: “It has never made any profit. I can’t think of any opera company in a world that makes a profit.

“Our last production really wiped us out and took out our reserves.

“Our membership is also growing old and we have tried all we can to attract younger members but it has not worked.”

Christmas 2 ‘til 4 with Opera 74 will take place at at The Christ Church Centre in Markland Hill, Heaton. Tickets cost £6, to book call 01204 439263.