Burley Theatre Group has donated £1,800 to the Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research Charity, following its success staging the play Calendar Girls in February.

The group offered profound thanks to all those who attended the production in the Queen’s Hall, Burley-in-Wharfedale.

The large audience numbers and generous financial support – from both those attending and also several local businesses – is greatly appreciated, said members.

The play, written by Tim Firth, was expertly directed by group member Pam Leach.

And as a special surprise for both the actors and the audience, the final night’s performance was attended by Beryl Bamforth, who was Miss January in the original Rylstone Women’s Institute calendar – the inspiration for the play and film of the same name.

All the proceeds of Burley Theatre Group’s production were donated to the charity.

The play, which has strict performance rights, effective from last March, has no longer been available to be staged by British amateur theatres.

More than £1 million has been raised for this charity from the proceeds of Calendar Girls on stage nationally in the UK.