AT THE height of its success the Vicar of Dibley was a huge TV ratings success for the BBC which aired for 13 years.

Created by Richard Curtis and written for actress, Dawn French, it received multiple British Comedy Awards, two international Emmys and many British Academy Television Awards nominations. In 2004 it was placed third in Britain’s Best Sitcom.

It was set in a fictional small Oxfordshire village called Dibley, which is assigned a female vicar following the 1992 changes in the Church of England that permitted the ordination of women.

The main character was an invention of Richard Curtis, but he and Dawn French extensively consulted the Reverend Joy Carroll, one of the first female priests and garnered many character traits and much information.

Throughout the series there were special guest appearances from Kylie Minogue, Darcey Bussell, Sarah Ferguson and Johnny Depp.

Now Pendle Hippodrome Theatre is taking on this monumental comedy from June 2-6.

Angela Boult takes on French’s role as Geraldine with Georgina Smith playing Alice Tinker and Barry Jackson is David Horton.

Josh Hindle is Hugo Horton, Kevin Riley takes on the role of Jim Trott and Andrea Jackson is Mrs Cropley.

Steven Manley will make a rare appearance on stage relinquishing his usual position in the lighting box to play David’s brother Simon. There will be a full supporting cast with some unexpected castings – watch this space.

Director Fiona Thompson says: “We have a great cast. It’s going to be a hilarious show. Again the theatre company stage staff are building a fantastic set and if you can knock in a nail or wield a paintbrush please get in touch with any member of the committee.”

Tickets are £7. To book call the booking secretary (evenings and weekends only) on 01282 612402. Or book at phtheatre.co.uk. Can also be bought from Discover Pendle, Boundary Mill Stores, Vivary Way, Colne or ring 01282 856186.

In other news – Pendle Hippodrome’s AGM is on Tuesday, April 14 at 7.30pm at the theatre. The theatre company is also looking for steward volunteers to be trained. Training nights are after the AGM (8pm) and April 22 at 7.30pm.