Tributes have been paid to a much-loved actor who died after collapsing during the opening night of a play at an Altrincham theatre.
David Garner collapsed during the interval of the season-opening play Fondly Remembered at Altrincham Little Theatre on Sunday September 30th.
Fellow cast members found him unconscious in his dressing room shortly before he was due to return to the stage.
He died peacefully in hospital the next afternoon, Monday October 1st, surrounded by his family.
A spokesman for the theatre said: “It is with deep sadness and shock that we have to report the sudden death of David Garner.
“David was a delight to know. Friendly, funny, and an excellent actor in whatever part he played.
“When he was not on stage he could be found, immaculate in dinner jacket and black tie, selling programmes and serving coffees to members of our audiences.
“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him and we send our love and condolences to his family and friends, who were numerous.”
The rest of the scheduled run of Fondly Remembered was cancelled.
David was well-known in local amateur theatre circles and performed at the Altrincham Little Theatre for over 20 years.
Fellow actor David Carney said he was “modest, professional, supportive and ultimately, a very talented actor”.
Actress Julie Broadbent, who was performing alongside David on the night, said: “What a gentleman. He will be missed for his talent and great sense of humour.”
Jenny Toy, who had also previously acted alongside David, added: “You were once my Romeo and I your Julliette once a long time ago in Hyde theatre. You were engaged and then happily married. Condolences to your family: you were a lovely man.”
