Thespians came face to face with the latest in stage and screen technology at a special workshop.

Representatives of local amateur theatre groups, turned out for the presentation on the ‘wonder material’ latex.

And to demonstrate its wide ranging uses in mask and props making as well as film and video preparation, expert Tony Stringfellow brought along a few examples of his work, which included replica heads of a pig, frog and ape.

The daylong meeting organised by the Preston and District Arts Association at St Andrews Infant School, Tulketh Road, Ashton, also attracted the attention of theme park chiefs and a British Rail safety officer.

Mr Stringfellow said that although latex was often only used by professionals, it had far wider applications because of its tough versatility.