TV and stage star Matthew Kelly will be among a host of well-known names bringing new work to Bolton throughout November.

The Octagon Theatre will presenting First Bites for three consecutive Fridays in the Market Place Shopping Centre starting next week.

At each event, there will be a full read-through of a new play which may later be developed into a full scale production.

The Octagon’s artistic director, Lotte Wakeham said: “We’ve lined up a hugely talented pool of actors for this very exciting series of play readings, featuring a mix of Octagon regulars as well as first time performers for the venue. It promises to be a wonderfully entertaining offering for Bolton audiences and a chance for people to give feedback on these new plays.”

Performances include the drama Family Trees by Clare Bayley next Friday; ‘state of the nation’ play Wilt by Kieran Knowles on Friday, November 22; and Wigan-based comedy Burkas and Bacon Butties by Shamia Chalabi and Sarah Henley on Friday, November 29.

Matthew Kelly will be part of the cast of Wilt.

He said: “I am delighted to be returning to Bolton and being part of this new series of play readings for the Octagon. I have wonderful memories of performing in Bolton - my last visit was appearing in the 40th Anniversary production of Oh What A Lovely War in 2007, so it will be lovely to be back!”

Opening the First Bite series will be two Brookside actors - Susan Twist who played Rosie Banks and John McArdle, Billy Corkhill in the TV soap.

Other familiar faces include Hollyoaks actor Darren Jeffries who starred as OB in the Channel 4 series who will be in Wilt and Wendy Albiston who has recently appeared in Coronation Street.

First Bite, Market Place Shopping Centre, Bolton, Friday, November 15, 22 and 29. Details from www.octagonbolton.co.uk