DARWEN Library Theatre has pulled off a major coup by getting distinguished actress Honor Blackman to perform her one-woman show as part of its new season of events.

The former Avengers' star , who also played Pussy Galore in the James Bond film Goldfinger, will present Wayward Women at the theatre on Saturday, March 8 -- an event to celebrate International Women's Day.

Steve Burch, manager of the Library Theatre, who has put together an exciting programme for all tastes, said: "We are delighted to have got Honor to agree to bring her show to Darwen. It is something of a coup for us, and is part of our commitment to bring entertainment of the highest quality to the area."

The one-woman show, which features songs and monologues, takes as its theme the way views of women have changed over the years.

Other big names making their way to Darwen include Jim Bowen, returning to the stage for a special one-off charity performance. The TV and radio presenter will host An Audience With Jim Bowen on Thursday, February 13 with proceeds going to the Friends of Ashleigh.

There will be plenty to bring a smile to the faces of audiences when Bernard Manning presents a special show The Legend Has Arrived on Friday, March 14.

He will be joined by singer/comedienne Janice York and a full backing band for two hours of song and comedy, with proceeds going to various charities.

Buzz Hawkins, the man behind the hit radio comedy series The Bradshaws will also be in town on Saturday, February 15 and Steve Steen will introduce a host of characters as he brings Bill Bryson's best selling novel Notes From A Small Island to life on Thursday, March 27.

Music lovers have plenty to look forward to with Dennis Locorriere, the voice of Dr Hook appearing in concert on Thursday, March 20. The ever-popular Houghton Weavers will be bringing their blend of folk and humour to the Library Theatre on Saturday, March 29.

For youngsters there will be two special shows timed for the school holidays. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be performed on Saturday, February 22 and then Spud Pirate will be taking on the Hungry Crocodile on Tuesday, April 15.

There will be a wide variety of theatre ranging from Alan Aykbourn's Relatively Speaking to the comedy musical Calamity Jane.

Leading psychic James Byrne will also be appearing at the Library Theatre on Thursday, March 6.

The new season at the Library Theatre starts with The Movie Story of Darwen on Friday, January 31, looking at rare footage from the town's past.

The following evening, there will be an action-packed evening of music, comedy and dance as the Mayor's Command Performance takes to the stage with proceeds going to the Mayor's Charity.