IT was with much sadness that I recently heard about the death of Richard De Vere, who played a leading role in the annual Christmas pantomime at the Theatre Royal for many years.

It has been a family tradition for some time now to visit the theatre on Boxing Day afternoon, usually seated on the front row of the stalls.

Richards would always seek me out and then a lively banter would ensue between us during the performance.

Indeed, on one particularly unforgettable occasion he invited me to join him on the stage for the finale. I loved it!

He was a hugely talented artist and will be greatly missed, not least by me.

Mrs Audrey Westhead

OBE St Helens