It is with the greatest sadness we share that New Mills AODS Life Member, John Foley died on Friday 10th September 2021, aged 83.

John started with the amateurs in 1965 in the chorus of the Mikado and progressed to playing principal roles with various societies. He joined NMAODS in 1974 with his wife Judy when they moved into the area from Stockport, where Judy took an active part backstage on props and then for several years in theatre front of house management. John starting first in the chorus of White Horse Inn, over the years performed various roles for the society.  He directed several society shows such as Annie Get Your Gun, Oliver and nine pantomimes.  

John directed the first Panto at New Mills, Babes In The Wood in 1981 setting a tradition as a major yearly-money spinner for the theatre.  The 1997 Panto production, Snow White saw John take up the the reigns as Director for the last time.  He held officer roles on New Mills AODS committee for many years, undertaking roles as Vice Chair and Chairman. In 2002 he was awarded a life membership and in 2006 became a Director of New Mills Art Theatre Limited and later resigned in 2010.  

For those who knew him, John will be remembered as an outstanding Life Member and good friend to New Mills AODS and New Mills Art Theatre. 

The Funeral Service and Committal will take place at Macclesfield Crematorium on Monday 4th October at 1.15 p.m.   Funeral Director is https://www.andrewsmithfuneralservices.co.uk/