ONE man in his life plays many parts - but is less often cast in the same sort of role on stage as off.

Mr David Tait, a hotel manager, brings real-life experience to his latest amateur role in Night Must Fall and has even been able to help Guisborough theatre club's costume department by finding an authentic bell boy uniform.

The one he is wearing was part of the livery for staff at Gisborough Hall when the hotel first opened in 1972. Mr Tait, aged 38, is the general manager there.

He plays the part of Dan, an enigmatic young man who works at a hotel in the classic Emlyn Williams murder suspense involving a missing woman. The role was written by the actor/playwright for himself.

"The uniforms are not used these days, but everything was stored and they are ideal for our purposes," he said.

Night Must Fall opened at Guisborough parish hall last night and runs until tomorrow.

Mr Tait joined the group three years ago and is its vice-chairman. Being part of an amateur dramatics group is the fulfilment of an ambition. He was willing to sweep floors to get involved, but at his first audition he won the lead role in Billy Liar despite not having acted on stage since his schooldays 20 years earlier.

He has since missed only one production - for the very good excuse that he was getting married.

The club, which has about 30 members, is keen to raise public awareness of live theatre in Guisborough.

Night Must Fall keeps the audience guessing right to the end and weaves in some funny moments. Written in 1935, it has been updated to the 60s. Tickets cost £4/£3 and are available on 01287 631885.