AN exhibition dedicated to a renowned playwright will be held at Bolton Library in September.

The show, a tribute to Bill Naughton who was brought up in Bolton in the 1920s, coincides with the launch of an archive at the library.

Bill, whose play Alfie was transformed into a hit film starring Michael Caine, produced a variety of dramas for the stage, screen, radio and TV in the 1960s.

His works also include Spring and Port Wine, The Family Way, The Goalkeeper's Revenge and June Evening.

Bolton Council purchased the collection of Naughton's works, which include original manuscripts of his plays, novels and some unpublished material, thanks to help from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Bolton Institute of Higher Education, Friends of National Libraries and The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund.

Visitors to the exhibition, which will be held on Monday, September 3 from 11am to 4pm, will have access to the works as well as never before seen photographs and maps.

Bill's widow, Erna, who lives in the Isle of Man, will attend an official function that evening. Free tickets are available from the Albert Halls ticket office.

The couple made their home on the Isle of Man before Bill's death in 1992 following a stroke.

Cllr John Byrne, Executive Member for Culture, said, "Bill was a proud Boltonian and this is reflected through his work. I am very pleased that we have acquired these archives which can now be enjoyed by the people of Bolton."

The open day will be repeated on Saturday, September 8, from 2pm to 4pm in the Meeting Room at the library.

For further information on the archive call Larysa Mitchell on 332185.

Other events relating to Bill Naughton and his work will take place throughout this month and September.

A free literary walk will be held at 6.30pm on August 28 starting at the High Street Library and visiting places associated with Bill.

For more details call Ken Beevers on 332340.

Bolton Institute hosts a conference on the writer on September 7 and 8 with guest lectures from Shirley Anne Field and Robert Murphy.

Tickets costs £40 (£30 concessionary) for the whole conference and £25 (£20 concessionary) for a single day.

For information contact Laurette Evans on 903353.