BEMERTON Players are celebrating 40 years of pantomime – oh yes they are.

Rehearsals are well under way for the Bemerton Players 40th pantomime, which this year is the archetypal rags-toriches story, Cinderella.

Bemerton Players drama group has been a community and family affair since it first took to the boards 40 years ago, providing joy and festive cheer to the community and raising funds for local charities.

It all started in November 1976 when a group of eight people met at the St Michael’s Community Hall and decided to set up the Bemerton Players Drama Club.

Each year the show brings together young and old, and this year three generations of one family are appearing on stage together.

The group is run by a team of volunteers and over the years it has supported many local charities by donating the proceeds of ticket sales. These have included Radio Odstock, Naomi House, St Andrews Appeal, and St Michael’s Community Centre. Last year £500 was raised for the Stars Appeal.

Founder member Terry Cleeve said: “As one of the founder members I am very pleased and proud that the Bemerton Players has continued to exist for so long and provided much enjoyment for so many. Long may it continue.”

Audiences of all ages are invited to come along to cheer on the heroes, boo the villains and get into the festive spirit.

Performances take place today and tomorrow at 7.30pm and Saturday, 2pm and 7pm at St Michaels Community Centre.

For more information, go to bemertonplayers.co.uk.