WHEN I was 14 years old, a Bolton schoolgirl at Wolfenden High School for Girls, great excitement was felt by all in the class, as we sat and listened to a talk about a new theatre that was in the process of opening in the town - the Octagon - and classes for youngsters were on offer. That was me hooked. My friends and I started the youth theatre groups and this kept us out of mischief for many years.

As time went on, I became more involved. First in helping on "fit ups", then working with stage management and lighting on scene changes, and, lastly, costume. In 1974 the wardrobe mistress Mary Horan offered me the chance to work with her as wardrobe assistant. I gave up my job and went to work at the Octagon where over the next four years I went from Wardrobe Assistant to Assistant Head of Costume as the productions and staff grew in size. I was there for the new idea of a Northern Theatre having a Shakespeare Season, and for the first Royal Command performance. One of the amazing things about the Octagon is that it was the first of its kind and has never been afraid to try new ideas.

I met my husband at the Octagon and went on to work at other theatres as well as teaching special needs on a work experience programme. Now I work with the elderly, which may not sound relevant, but I obtained this job because of my theatrical experience, which I owe to the Octagon. Because of them, I grew from a very shy 14-year-old from a large family with average education, to a person able to help, give talks, make suggestions, advise and turn their hand to most things. As well as this, I have a husband and three children.

Perhaps I sound melodramatic when I say that, if it wasn't for the Octagon, I would have none of these things, but it is true.

Please, this from a Bolton girl, rethink your strategy over the Octagon! Do not let Bolton lose this precious facility. The Octagon helped to put Bolton on the map. Let's keep it there with its individuality. It is not a touring house it is a theatre to create. Please let others likeme have the opportunity to develop and grow from the Octagon's inspiration.

In my opinion, Bolton needs the Octagon as it is.

Barbara Putwain

Dalmally Road, Addiscombe, Croydon

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.