Kathy was a great fan of the Coliseum

OLDHAM Coliseum has paid tribute to TV and stage star Kathy Staff who died following a long illness at the weekend.

Kathy (80), who played Nora Batty in “Last of the Summer Wine”, had a long-standing relationship with the Fairbottom Street theatre.

Kathy’s long career began when she joined the Coliseum’s acting club when she was 16.

She appeared in many plays at the Coliseum during the 1970s including “In Celebration”, “The Corn is Green”, “Friends and Neighbours” and “Hanky Panky”.

Kathy later commented to author and presenter Mark Llewellin in “They Started Here” publication: “I thought I’d really made it in showbusiness when I appeared at the Oldham Coliseum for the first time.”

Both Kathy, from Dukinfield, and her husband, John, were very fond of the Coliseum, and regularly attended the theatre.

David Rustidge, front of house manager said: “Kathy appeared on our stage many times in the 1970s during the hectic repertory days, generally playing strong, upright northern characters.”

Kevin Shaw, chief executive of the Coliseum, added: “She was a wonderful and talented lady.