It's ten years now since the RATS last performed Wizard of Oz and the enthusiasm of the cast made sure this year's production was just as good.

For two of the cast, Judy Mallam as the Wicked Witch of the West, and Keith Flood as the Lion, it was like old times as they dusted off their old costumes to reprise their roles.

With 26 in the cast, this was no mean feat of choreography, and it was ably handled by Bryony Frost with numerous tricky dance routines. Chris Freeman put in his usual energy-fuelled performance as musical director.

Will Thomas played the Scarecrow, Phil Baugh the Tin Man.

The most magical event happened with the wicked witch's demise which Judy made look terrifyingly real.

Dorothy was played by 15-year-old Helen Charlesworth and at the other end of the age range, David Procter played the formidable Wizard.

Director Susan Cronshaw, producer Jean Skilbeck, set managers John Sharples and Alex Milne, make-up artist Joan Woolmington and costume designer Anne-Marie Caunce all excelled too.