THE man who took Robbie Williams to Blackburn is looking to build on the success of his first season in charge of Darwen Library Theatre.

Steve Burch, manager of the Knott Street venue, doubled the amount of acts in the spring and saw many performances sell out.

He was appointed to the role in January with the task of putting the theatre on the map - and he feels he is gradually doing that.

Steve was promotions manager at Blackburn's King George's Hall and was responsible for booking acts such as Robbie Williams, Paul Weller and Louise through contacts in the entertainment industry. He has just released the theatre's summer programme which has more shows than ever before.

"We have already been able to double to number of performances by introducing the music to go along side the existing theatrical performances," said Steve. "I wanted to continue the programme the audience was used to but add to it. I've hardly had time to catch my breath since my January appointment, but I must say it has been immensely rewarding.

"In particular, the new works from companies such as Spike and Talia were a joy and the sell-out success enjoyed by our very own Library Players and Blackburn Drama Club show great encouragement for the future.

Some of the acts set for the theatre this summer include ex-Emmerdale and radio star Bernard Wrigley, and number of children's plays like Wind in the Willows and Little Red Riding Hood by well-established companies.