A DAD who dreamt of creating his own theatre is being honoured by friends who shared his goal.

Robert Peace died aged 60 in September following a battle with leukaemia.

The father-of-two from Heaton was a stalwart of the Bolton amateur dramatic scene and bought the former SS Simon and Jude Church in Great lever.

Now home to CATS Youth Theatre, he named it the Peace Community Theatre with the view to working with CATS to transform the building into a theatre.

The society is now dedicating its forthcoming production of Feelgood Academy to his memory.

Group leader Paul Cohen said: "All he wanted was to have a theatre and worked with us to build the stage. It's safe to say his dream is coming true.

"He was involved with groups likes of Opera 74, New Rosemere, St Philips and Walmsley. He was always very keen and enthusiastic and he wanted the opportunity for Bolton to have its very own theatre.

"This show is in memory of Robert and it is very exciting."

Mr Peace gained planning permission to convert the church in Rishton Lane back in 2014and work is ongoing to change it into a theatre and community facility while providing a permanent home and rehearsal space for the youngsters who attend CATS.

Feelgood Academy is a new British family-friendly musical set in a performing arts school.

When it hits the stage in Bolton next week, it will be the very first time it has been performed by an amateur dramatic society.

The author and composer will be travelling up from London to watch the production on its Friday night performance.

Mr Cohen added: "It's almost a English version of Fame!

"As a new musical it's always a risk. You hope it will attract audiences and tickets will sell."

Feelgood Academy runs from November 22 to 25 at St Catherine's Academy, in Stitch-Mi-Lane in Harwood. Shows start at 7.30pm and tickets cost £10, to book call 01204 659199 or visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/cats-youth-theatre.