The Ribchester RATS have had one heck of a year, culminating in Owen Wilson's War Bus' at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Here's what The RATS have in store for 2006...

The RATS are busy rehearsing for the February production of Wizard of Oz.

The part of Dorothy has gone to Helen Charlesworth, 15, who has done two or three productions for the RATS notably the very funny Mock Turtle in Alice in Wonderland with the Young Rats in September.

Another cast member from that show, Will Thomas, 14, who played the Mad Hatter and who has done several plays and pantos for the society, has been given the pivotal role of Scarecrow.

Five veterans of RATS are also involved. Phil Baugh as Tinman, Keith Flood as the cowardly Lion, Jane Flynn as Aunt Em and the kind sorceress, David Procter as the wizard and Judy Mallam as the Wicked Witch of the West.

This will be the third time Judy has played the part.

The play also features Kevan Thompson of Bouncers fame, Craig Jackson and a welcome return for Lindsey Jones.

The RATS' enthusiastic and talented juniors play all the other parts, including the Munchkins.

Director Susan Cronshaw and musical director, Chris Freeman, express their pleasure at the way things are going so far.