Norman Pace's Grand Theatre conquest

Black Country-born funnyman Norman Pace is hoping to raise the roof at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre next month.

The comedian, who was born in Dudley and is best known for his double act Hale and Pace with friend Gareth Hale, will star in the comedy thriller Murdered To Death.

The 57-year-old was at the Grand yesterday, which is about to launch its new Summer Play Season, and said it was good to be back in the Black Country.

"I'm looking forward to performing at the Grand," he said. "It's a beautiful place. I was born in Dudley and I still have cousins who live in the area."

Michelle Hardwick from ITV's hospital drama The Royal and former Coronation Street star Chloe Newsome also star in Murdered To Death. The season begins with Inside Job, a classic whodunit, from July 6-10.

Former London's Burning favourite Richard Walsh, who played Sicknote, will lead a cast in the mystery thriller The Late Edwina Black, showing from July 13-17.

The comedy It's Never Too Late follows from July 13-17 before the season finishes with comedy thriller Murdered to Death, July 20-24. For details go www.grand-theatre.co.uk or call 01902 429212.