A centenarian from Nantwich, Cheshire, has been recognised in the latest Birthday Honours List for her extensive contribution to local theatre. Pat Knifton Hough, aged 101, described herself as 'delighted and very grateful' to receive a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her dedication to the Nantwich Players over 57 years. Her tireless work has been instrumental in the growth and sustained future of the amateur dramatics organisation.
Mrs Knifton Hough was a founding member of the group that transformed a former Quaker meeting house into the Nantwich Players Theatre. In 1980, the group acquired the 300-year-old building from Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, which had been utilising it as a records office. Through their efforts, the structure was converted into an 82-seat theatre, with surrounding areas ingeniously repurposed to create a welcoming foyer and essential backstage facilities.
Jeremy Acklam, Chairman of the Nantwich Players, highlighted the enduring legacy of Mrs Knifton Hough's work. He noted that the original building she helped establish remains the core of their operations, although the theatre has since expanded into an adjacent former funeral parlour. Mr Acklam expressed immense gratitude, both personally and on behalf of Nantwich, for the foundational efforts of Mrs Knifton Hough and her colleagues.
The Nantwich Players currently boasts around 160 members and stages approximately ten productions annually. This represents a significant expansion from the organisation Mrs Knifton Hough helped to create, which Mr Acklam estimates to be roughly double its original size. Despite her age, Mrs Knifton Hough continues to be a devoted patron, attending nearly every production, demonstrating her enduring passion for the theatre.
Mr Acklam further praised Mrs Knifton Hough as an 'incredibly generous' individual, consistently focusing on positive outcomes and what could be achieved for the local community. He conveyed his profound satisfaction at her recognition, stating that it was 'very fitting' and that 'it really couldn't have happened for a better person'. The honour celebrates not just her longevity but a lifetime of commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of Nantwich.