MEMBERS of Pendle's amateur dramatic theatre scene will pay their last respects to one of the area's best known characters at his funeral service tomorrow.

Thomas Todhunter, better known to local theatregoers as simply Tod Hunter, died at his home in Colne on Monday.

A service will be held at Burnley Crematorium at 3.30pm and many local theatre people are expected to attend.

Tod was born in Cumbria and came to Colne 30 years ago after working as a professional actor in Dublin.

He very soon became involved with Colne Dramatic Society, on stage and behind the scenes as a successful and very popular actor and producer. He also worked with Colne Operatic Society.

He retired from his job as a postman in Colne two years ago.

Brian Earnshaw, who took over from Tod as president of the dramatic society last year, said: "He was a very good producer and took a great interest in getting even the smallest detail just right.

"He was meticulous about everything he did. His sets were beautifully done. He was extremely popular with all the people who came to his shows."

Tod died after losing a brief battle against cancer. He had been treated at Burnley General Hospital but was allowed home at his request on Friday.

He leaves two sisters who live out of the area.

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