Tributes have been paid to a theatre director who died at the age of 76, sitting in his favourite armchair, blanket on knees, crossword on lap, and his dog by his side.
Andy Naylor, co-founder and emeritus artistic director at Westacre Theatre, near Swaffham, directed more than 200 productions during his career.
His directing career began at the Angles Theatre in Wisbech, before he moved across to West Acre in 1990.
Even after his well-earned retirement in 2020, he remained as passionate about the theatre as he was the day he arrived in the west Norfolk village 36 years earlier.
In a statement, Westacre Theatre said: “We are heartbroken to learn the news of the unexpected but peaceful passing of Andy Naylor.
“Andy died peacefully in his sleep in his favourite armchair, blanket on knees, cryptic crossword on lap, glasses on head and faithful Labrador Molly asleep by his side.
“He leaves a gaping hole in our hearts.”
Born in Bradford in 1949, Mr Naylor moved to Wisbech in 1972 to teach English and drama at Queens Girls’ School and later the Isle of Ely College.
With many others, he re-founded the Georgian Angles Theatre and in 1990 became involved in staging open-air summer productions in the grounds of Abbey House in West Acre.
Soon after, the disused chapel on River Road was converted into a performance space, which would go on to become "a flourishing cultural hub”.
His family said: "He worked tirelessly in the arts in Norfolk for many decades."
His funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
- To read all obituaries and tributes join the Facebook group Norfolk's Loved & Lost.
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