It’s showtime!

David Hughes . . . the show must go on

A DRAMA teacher who works night and day to ensure the show goes on has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Oldham College performance and production course tutor David Hughes (53), from Oldham, has impressed students with his dedication to helping them achieve their best.

He has previously taught former “Coronation Street” actress Sarah Lancashire, who shot to fame as dippy barmaid Raquel Watts, and was a technician while Jane Horrocks, who starred in film Little Voice and TV drama The Street, was a student.

Technical theatre student Karl Cockram, from Chadderton, who made the nomination, said: “When we put on shows he works night and day and even weekends to make sure the shows go ahead and also keeps the students in check.

“He does a lot for the department and doesn’t get acknowledged for his efforts. When we are not doing shows he supports us when writing our assignments. He is a true asset.”

Mr Hughes, who is married with three children, started his career at the Grange Arts Centre in 1978 and worked as a technician for five years before moving into teaching.

He said: “It’s a surprise. It’s really kind of him. I’m really pleased that Karl wanted to do that for me. It’s been a vocation — it’s my calling.

“We definitely go beyond the call of duty but you do when it’s your vocation. You go that bit further.”