A LEADING Blackburn businessman has thrown his weight behind a final push to create an army of supporters for East Lancashire's latest cultural landmark.

Paul Baker, managing director of Thwaites Brewery, is the new chairman of the Blackburn Theatre Trust and is backing the Everyone Needs A Friend campaign, which aims to woo volunteers to help run the soon-to-be-opened Thwaites Theatre in Ewood.

Mr Baker said: "It is bringing different charitable organisations and community organisations together. Everything is now in place -- we had faith in the people involved and they have come through.

"We see ourselves very much as a Blackburn company. Many of our employees live here, we have whole families working for us and any money we do spend we like to put back into the area."

It is hoped the 200-seater theatre, which will be boosted to a 350-seater with the later addition of a balcony, will open in April or May.

Project director Michael Berry, who spearheaded a campaign which has raised more than £300,000 in the past three years, hopes that among the guests on the official opening night will be actor Sir John Mills and mirthmaker Ken Dodd, who have both expressed their support for the venture.

In the meantime, the search continues for volunteers willing to support the theatre, both on and off-stage.

Anyone who can sing, act, play an instrument or dance is welcome -- as is anyone who can make scenery, work in the office, clean or sell ice cream.

Money is also needed and those who subscribe for 12 months for £20 receive a host of benefits, including two free tickets per year, preferential booking and free entrance to the proposed open day -- as well as a place in theatre history.

Mr Berry said a sponsor was still needed for the attached art and community centre and potential sponsors or would-be 'friends' of the theatre can contact him on 01254 57663.