Workington actress Margaret bids goodbye to the stage as drama stalwarts are honoured

Last updated at 09:03, Friday, 15 June 2012

The president of Workington and District Amateur Musical Society is preparing to take a back seat after more than five decades with the group.

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Margaret McIntyre, of Derwent Ridge, Seaton, will step down from her role this month and retire from the stage as the society marks its 60th anniversary.

Her retirement comes as she received a 50-year service award from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association at the Workington society’s anniversary ball on Friday.

The 64-year-old officially joined the society at 14, although, as the daughter of founder members Alf and Ruby Stockdale, she had been involved before that.

She said: “I used to help and be a bit of a gopher when we were in the Opera House. It had never entered my head not to join.”

Margaret has taken on many roles in the last 50 years, both on and off stage.

She has played numerous key roles, including Aunt Eller in Oklahoma! last year.

Margaret met her husband Bill through the society. After the birth of their son Paul in 1978, he stepped back from the group to look after the baby while Margaret, who was more involved, carried on.

She said: “I can’t imagine what my life would have been like without it. It’s where I’ve met a lot of friends.”

But, she said, it is time to pass the baton to the next generation.

Margaret added: “The group’s got a lot of really good younger members. It’s time for them to have their turn.”

Margaret was one of four people to receive awards.

Also honoured for 50 years of service to amateur dramatics was Alan Carruthers, 68, of Coniston Drive.

He joined the society 20 years ago, having already spent 30 years with Workington Amateur Operatic Society, and is a life member of both.

Granddaughter Ellie McAdam, 21, is also a member.

Charlotte Bowman, 24, of Cockfield Drive, and Hayley Blacklock, 26, of Curwen Street, were given awards for 15 years of service.

Guests at the ball at the Washington Central Hotel included founder member Florence Ellwood and the mayors of Allerdale and Workington, Carole Armstrong and Andrew Lawson, who all took to the dance floor.

Click here and type Wadams into the search box to view more pictures from the ball and order prints.

First published at 19:23, Thursday, 14 June 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk