BRIDGERTON star Luke Newton has been named as a patron of a Brighton theatre institution. 

The Shoreham-by-Sea actor is known for playing the third eldest Bridgerton son, Colin, in Netflix's smash hit regency romance. 

The 29-year-old is set to play a starring role in the upcoming third series of the show alongside Derry Girls actor Nicola Coughlan.

The Brighton and Hove Operatic Society (BHOS) made the announcement on social media in April, ahead of one of his family members appearing in production in June.

Bridgerton star Luke Newton becomes patron of Brighton theatre company

In its Instagram post the BHOS wrote: "Luke, who plays Colin Bridgerton in the hit TV show – which recently broke the record for drawing more viewers in a single week than any other English-language show on Netflix – is a former member of BHOS and appeared in several of our productions as a youngster.

"In fact, it was a BHOS production of Billy Elliot in 2010 where Luke was first spotted by a talent agent and set on the road to global stardom. "

The post continues with a statement from the Shoreham actor himself. 

Luke said: “I have so many amazing memories of performing in BHOS productions when I was younger. I still feel very connected to my home town and forever grateful for the opportunities I was given as a young performer. BHOS continues to entertain audiences in Brighton & Hove.

"In fact, my Aunty Tania is the lead in the upcoming production of ‘Calendar Girls The Musical’ and my mum Michelle is on the production team. I’m delighted to be a Patron of such a well-loved and respected local theatre company."

The BHOS is celebrating its 136th anniversary this year which would make it the oldest theatre company in Brighton. 

Andy Stoner, the BHOS Chair, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Luke Newton as Patron who is proof that performing in local theatre can be a genuine route to an acting career. I am sure Luke will be cheering on his Aunty Tania in Calendar Girls in June.

"Welcome @lukenewtonuk we are pleased to have you as a patron. Well done on the second series of Bridgerton. We love seeing Colin on our screens."

How to buy tickets to  Calendar Girls The Musical at Theatre Royal Brighton

The Gary Barlow-penned ‘Calendar Girls The Musical’ will be premiering at the Theatre Royal Brighton in June. 

The production is running from Wednesday, June 22 to Saturday, June 25 with options for both matinee and evening shows.

Tickets are available from £13 via the ATG Tickets website.