ONE of Blackpool's churches celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and hopes are high that a plethora of stars will join in the festivities.

Saint Stephen's on the Cliff Church in North Shore boasts what is believed to be the only actor's chapel in the world and for the past 70 years travelling stars appearing in Blackpool have been spotted in the church seeking advice and guidance.

Built under the watchful eye of Canon Freshwater in 1927, the church has welcomed hundreds of well-known faces including Thora Hird, Harry Secombe, George Formby and Gracie Fields.

Up until 1991, every star passing through Saint Stephen's doors signed into the visitor's book.

Now, in celebration of the anniversary, this year's crop of talent appearing in the resort are being invited to the world-famous church.

Father Peter Walsh said: "We are currently in negotiations with various people and it would be brilliant if they could attend.

"The chapel is dedicated to the acting profession and ever since it was built performing stars have passed through our doors as the end of each season.

"I am also the curate for the Grand Theatre, and I regularly pop down to have a chat with the cast and stage crew of the performances there.

"For some of the people on tour they have been away from home for a long time and want somebody to talk to and that is what we are here for."

A three-day heritage exhibition was officially opened at the church last week by Pleasure Beach chairwoman Doris Thompson and is one of a series of events planned over the summer.

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