Respected actor David Suchet OBE - famous internationally for his role as Belgian detective Hercule Poirot - has become actor patron for the Sarah Thorne Theatre Club in Broadstairs.

Michael Wheatley-Ward, club chairman, is "delighted and proud"
at the move. He said: "Following the appointment of Dame Judi Dench
as our actress patron in February it was thought that an actor
patron should also be sought.

"A short list was drawn up and we are so pleased that our first
choice accepted our invitation. In his acceptance letter, he wished
us "all continued success" in providing quality local theatre for
Broadstairs and East Kent."

Mr Suchet is one of the country's best known actors, with a lengthy career spanning stage, screen and television. He is currently on the West End stage at the Apollo Theatre playing the lead in Arthur Miller's All My Sons.

David is shortly to receive an Honorary Degree at the University of Kent on July 13 at Canterbury Cathedral.

The Sarah Thorne Theatre Club has continued to expand since it
was launched less than three years ago and features comprehensive
and varied programme of drama, music, youth and community theatre,
as well as an education programme.