PLAYWRIGHT Jim Cartwright returned to Farnworth to watch the town's Little Theatre give a performance of his play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice.

The award winning writer who began his theatrical career at the FLT as a member of its youth section, was in the audience on the Wednesday night performance of the show's run and took the time afterwards to meet the cast -- and tell them how much he had enjoyed their performance. The show, a terrific success for FLT, featured cabaret entertainer Julie Waldron in the demanding lead role, supported by an excellent cast.

Film enthusiasts would remember 'Little Voice' from the Oscar nominated big screen version, which starred Michael Caine, Jane Horrocks, Brenda Blethyn and Ewan McGregor.

And despite the daunting task faced to overcome comparisons, the company won the praise off the man behind whose words they performed.

John Howarth who directed the play, has been with Farnworth Little Theatre for 12 years, and is an experienced and gifted actor himself. He has a number of prestigious awards to his name, including Greater Manchester Drama Federation's trophy for best actor for his role in 'Someone To Watch Over Me.'