KEEPING it in the family is par for the course for Blackpool's favourite girl group The Nolans.

So when Anne's daughter Amy and her cousin Julie were thinking of stepping into the spotlight it seemed logical for them to join two of the legendary line-up for Comedy Bonanza 2000 at Blackpool Grand Theatre.

"The Nolans have had so many combinations over the years," Anne said as we chatted in the Grand dress circle bar after the Nolans had finished giving local landladies a taster of the fun to come at the Bonanza Brunch on Friday.

"Maureen and I had actually been working with two dancers but decided we wanted to go back to being an all vocal group. So we were about to hold auditions when we thought, 'Why not ask Amy and Julie?'

"They're already singers who have their own group Third Base and we thought a professional summer season in such an excellent theatre and a great cast would be a good grounding for the future."

Amy agrees. "Mum and Maureen know all the pitfalls and not to panic when things go wrong like the backing tape suddenly cutting out and having to sing acapella. And it's a safe environment because it's all too easy to fall prey to dodgy characters in this business." The seaside songbirds will join old mates Billy Pearce and Jimmy Cricket in the show who the girls have worked with in panto and on their recent tour of Ireland. But it will be their debut with local boy John Inman.

"We can't believe we haven't come across each other before with us both being from Blackpool," said Anne.

"And it's wonderful working in our home town. Every year we say 'Any chance of Blackpool?' so we can work and take the kids to school and see family. And also with me not being that well it's easier to be close to home and our 15 minute spot is just enough.

"But we'll cram in all the favourites with some exciting new stuff too like a Woman Medley with Shania Twain etc. And of course I'm In The Mood For Dancing or there'll be a riot."

And will the girls catch big sister Linda in Blood Brothers at the Opera House this month?

"Definitely," confirmed Maureen. "I've seen it so many times now with both Bernie and Linda in it everyone says I've become an anorak about it. I still cry like mad and I forget it's my sister up there they were both so convincing.

"Denise is also lined up to play the part of Mrs Johnstone in the future so we could be called the Blood Sisters!"

Comedy Bonanza opens at Blackpool Grand Theatre on July 6 until October 28. For show times and ticket prices call the box office on (01253) 290190.