A NEWPORT actress has been awarded for her portrayal of an eccentric bag lady in a recent production by Newport Playgoers.

Ruth Ferguson was named Newport’s best actor at Newport Playgoers Society’s annual general meeting and was presented with the Webley Award.

Ms Ferguson was awarded for her role as the bag lady Miss Shepherd in Alan Bennett’s The Lady in the Van.

She also recently won the Gwent Drama League award for best actress and The Lady in the Van also picked up awards for best decor, best play and best overall production.

The Webley Award is presented each year in honour of Thomas Webley, the society’s first President, who was principal of Caerleon College – now the University of Wales, Newport.

Ms Ferguson, who has been a member of Playgoers for more than 30 years, said: “I am really pleased to have won this award.”

For more information and for tickets for upcoming productions, see dolmantheatre.co.uk or call 01633 263670.