THE man who saved Bolton’s Octagon Theatre has died.

John Blackmore is credited with turning it into one of the most celebrated theatres outside London.

He died on Tuesday at the age of 77 following an illness.

A champion of regional theatre, he arrived at the Octagon in 2000 and transformed its fortunes during his 12 years of leadership.

Roddy Gauld, the theatre’s current CEO, and Elizabeth Newman, artistic director, said: “He took charge of the Octagon at a time of hardship, when its future was in doubt. He determinedly rebuilt the finances, ambitions and morale of the organisation, and served as the longest leader in the theatre's history.”

They added: “John will be missed by everyone at the Octagon who knew him and his legacy will remain at the Octagon for many years to come.”

In a career spanning six decades, Mr Blackmore, who was born in Singapore and grew up in Africa, passionately believed in theatre’s ability to improve the quality of life for everyone, not just the privileged few.

His work took him the length of the UK, impacting communities and supporting artists who would shape the fabric of UK Theatre for the next generation.

Vice-chancellor of the University of Bolton, Professor George Holmes, served alongside Mr Blackmore on the Octagon’s board.

He described him as “a man of great conviction and determination,” who had saved the Octagon from almost certain closure.

Prof Holmes added that Mr Blackmore rightfully deserved the doctorate the university awarded him for his services to theatre.