THE funeral of former Hampshire theatre boss Peter Lea will take place next week.

Mr Lea, a former manager at the Nuffield Theatre, died at the age of 74 after suffering from a short illness.

Peter worked at The Nuffield Theatre from 1999 until 2004.

He was born in Penarth, South Wales, and worked in theatre for over 45 years.

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Mr Lea produced concerts right up until three weeks before his death.

He married his wife Lynda in 1969 and was father to two daughters, Sian and Cerys.

Peter started working at the New Theatre, Cardiff, in 1971, and was the general manager from 1977 until 1985.

During his time at Cardiff Mr Lea produced more than 12 pantomimes featuring stars such as Leslie Crowther, Roy Hudd and Ted Rogers.

He also produced shows starring Dickie Henderson, Keith Harris, as well as Welsh comedian Stan Stennett.

In his career, Mr Lea managed theatres in Norwich, Eastbourne, Leicester, Leatherhead and Farnham as well as the Nuffield.

He worked for Vanessa Ford Productions for many years as a general manager and company manager.

Mr Lea directed musicals, concerts, plays and major charity events, raising over £1 million for various causes.

He moved to Weston Super Mare in 2004, to be nearer his mother and sister, where he presented a range of shows and even volunteered at a local museum.

Mr Lea’s funeral service will take place at Weston Super Mare Crematorium on November 26 at 4.30pm.

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