THE curtain has come down on the career of a theatre employee who has worked in Darlington for 27 years.

Betty McFaul, 65, retired from her post as director's secretary at Darlington Civic Theatre last week.

Mrs McFaul's family has long links with the theatre - her grandparents owned and lived in the Regent Fish Restaurant which was converted into part of the theatre.

The theatre director's current office was in fact her family living room.

Mrs McFaul has met numerous celebrities during her long career including Kenn Dodd, Margot Fonteyn, Vera Lynn and Darcy Bussell.

She said: "I used to welcome the performers to the theatre so it was often just hello and goodbye, but it was really nice when they stopped to talk."

Mrs McFaul hasn't yet made any plans for her retirement, but is keen to keep fit with yoga, aerobics and swimming.

She said: "I am looking forward to my retirement but of course it is tinged with sadness," she said. "I am looking forward to spending time with my husband, Gordon, and my family."