VENTURE down to the dark leafy glades of Williamson Park and you're sure to be in for a surprise.

Witches, woodcutters and wicked stepmothers lie in wait as The Dukes' prepares its annual open air production to go 'walkabout' in the shadows of the Ashton Memorial.

With the lighting rigs up, last stitches on the costumes sewn and sets polished, the show is ready to take to the outdoor stage tomorrow (Friday) for its run through to August 9.

This year's treat is 'The Grimm Tales' which promises to capture the ' imagination of local audiences - as the stories have for 200 years.

The Brothers Grimm collected their ancestral tales from Germany and surrounding countries in a bid to preserve the traditional domestic stories of the peasants.

They have become best-loved fairytales for generations of children, with favourites including Cinderella and Hansel and Gretel.

Directed by Ian Hastings, a multi-talented cast of seven recounts the tales to an audience of all ages around Williamson Park - with some of the locations being used for the first time in years.

Dukes' regular Keith Morris wrote the music, drawing on European folk for his inspiration, while Emily Couper brings weird and wonderful designs to the set.

For more information or to book call the Dukes on 01524-598500.