THIS month Bolton is welcoming back one of its favourite home stars as she prepares to hit the stage.

Katy Cavanagh is treading the Octagon Theatre boards once again for powerful drama Ashes.

The former Canon Slade pupil returns with co-star Colin Connor after they starred together in the successful back-to-back productions of Two and Two2 last year.

The television and stage actress, who grew up in Bolton, has spoken of her joy of being back in town and performing, once again, in front of home crowd.

She said: “It’s very special to me.

“This is where I grew up, this is where I started and I was a member of the youth group here.

“When I was young on a Saturday I used to head into town and hang around with friends.

She added: “I have not done massives of theatre so it’s really nostalgic for me to be at the Octagon.

“The Bolton audience are so rewarding and supportive. they are really passionate about this theatre and it is pretty special to be able to act in front of them.”

Katy began acting as a youngster, following in the footsteps of her drama teacher mother, including performing regularly at the Astley Bridge Theatre Church.

She has been a regular on TV for nearly 20 years and became a household name in 2008 as Julie Carp in Coronation Street, before leaving in February last year to pursue other interests.

The past year has been a busy one for the actress who has appeared both on stage and the small screen, including shows like Midsomer Murders and Birds of the Feather.

She has also been keeping an eye on her 11-year-old son Noah Jupe as he takes his first steps in the acting world, including a role in BBC hit adaption of John le Carré’s novel’s The Night Manager.

Ashes, by David Rudkin, is on at the Octagon from February 23.