ACTOR George Baker, best known for his TV role as Inspector Wexford, has been announced as the special guest at this year's Daily Echo Curtain Call Awards.

The respected actor will be handing out the gongs at the latest annual ceremony, which recognises the efforts of the dozens of amateur theatre groups in Hampshire and the surrounding area.

The glittering Oscars-style event, now in its second year, will be staged at Winchester Guildhall on Friday next week.

This year's ceremony promises to acknowledge the efforts of even more people involved in local productions, including behind-the-scenes crew as well as the actors busy entertaining on stage.

The Echo's dedicated team of Curtain Call reviewers has spent weeks deliberating over the final results, which will be announ-ced in 22 different categories.

Once again, all local amateur theatre groups are invited to attend the event, even if they have not been nominated for an award.

George has waived his fee to appear at the event and instead asked that the Echo make a donation to the Romsey Hospital Appeal, of which he is a patron.

There are still some spaces left at the ceremony. For ticket information, call Daily Echo promotions executive Jo Richardson on 023 8042 4715.