The longest serving member of the Octagon took centre stage as the red carpet was rolled out for him a this year's prestigious The Stage Awards.

Jim Whaite received the Unsung Hero Award at the 'Oscars' of the theatre world.

The Unsung Hero Award recognises individuals or teams who have excelled in their work in the sector.

Jim received the award at a ceremony at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London. The Octagon Theatre was also shortlisted for Theatre of the Year.

Jim, who will celebrate his 50th year at the Octagon later this year - is the longest standing member of the current Octagon staff.

He said: “I had absolutely no idea – what a shock, in the best possible way.

“Working at the Octagon and to be a part of such a remarkable team is reward itself, they are like family, so to receive this award is just absolutely wonderful and I could not be happier.

“This award is for all the brilliant and hard-working front of house staff.”

During his time at the Octagon Jim has had various roles including bar assistant, bar supervisor, usher, and welcome assistant, and assisting backstage, to becoming a qualified chaperone.

The Octagon’s Chief Executive Roddy Gauld and artistic Director Lotte Wakeham commented: “Everyone at the Octagon is so proud of Jim and his award.

“Jim is always willing to go the extra mile in supporting others and the theatre.

“He is the first person to be there when a job needs doing and the last person to expect recognition.

“Whether he’s working in the bar or backstage, he brings sincere care and encouragement to everyone he meets.

“For nearly fifty years he has made generations of actors, staff, volunteers and customers feel welcome and valued.

“It’s clear that the Octagon means a great deal to Jim and his wife, Anne, and we are so delighted that he has rightly been recognised as one of the theatre industry’s Unsung Heroes.”

For more information about the Octagon visit octagonbolton.co.uk

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.