Last year, Luke D’Apolito impressed audiences in the title role of Buttershaw St Paul’s Amateurs’ production of Oliver.

Now Luke, 14, is busy rehearsing for his next leading role – Denry Machin in The Card.

The show is Buttershaw’s junior production, running at Cleckheaton Town Hall from April 16 to 18, with tickets available on (01274) 335003.

With the book by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall and music and lyrics by Tony Hatch and Jackie Trent, the lively show is based on Arnold Bennett’s 1911 comedy novel of the same name.

It chronicles the rise of Denry Machin from washerwoman’s son to the Mayor of Bursley with a dollop of luck, guile and initiative.

Luke, who attends Dixons Technology College, is following in the footsteps of young TV stars Chris Fountain and Tom Milner, who both started treading the boards with Buttershaw St Paul’s Amateurs. Chris plays Tommy Duckworth in Coronation Street and Tom has starred in Waterloo Road.

While The Card showcases the talents of the society’s younger members, the achievements of an older member have also been recognised.

Tony Gregson has been a member of Buttershaw St Paul’s since 1952, when he joined a production of Magyar Melody.

He has since taken on many roles for societies across the district, and has held various administrative positions, including eight years as chairman of Buttershaw St Paul’s.

A well-known figure on Bradford’s theatrical scene, he has also looked after the wardrobe departments for amateur societies and theatre groups.

Now Tony has been awarded the National Operatic and Dramatic Association’s (NODA) Diamond Bar for his service to the amateur stage.