A STALWART of Darwen Library Theatre has returned after stepping down last year.

Volunteer Don Banks, 66, who helped organise events and was a regular compere, quit in January last year after nine years.

He was unhappy at the amount of work he was being asked to do and a lack of support.

But now, Mr Banks, of St Aidan’s Avenue, is back ‘where he belongs’.

Mr Banks, pictured, said he wanted to revive the once popular afternoon music halls that take place once a month.

He said: “I am just doing it for the people of Darwen. I want to help the older people who get out. Attend-ances have dropped and I am worried the powers that be would say it isn’t worth it – but I know it is worth it.

“It would not fair for the older people as a lot do not go out at night now.

“At its height I was getting 180 people in every show, but it’s down to 19 now. I am frightened to death that they will pack it in.”

Mr Banks said he wants to bring in some differenct acts, and will call in a few favours from celebrity friends.

He said: “I want to get it back to what it was before.

“I think it has gone a bit stale and needs freshening up.

“I have got Phil Cool coming in May and Dusty Young will be performing as well.”

Mr Banks, who is married to Marion, said he was glad to be back.

He said: “I have missed it and I have missed the people.

“In Darwen, they all know me. I am back now and looking at different artists and better quality artists.”

Darwen Town Council deputy chairman Coun Steve Duncan said: “It is great news that Don is back. His real love is the Library Theatre.

“He will also compere the Darwen Town Council Mayor’s Command performance in April.”