CONGRATULATIONS to the St Helens Catholic Amateur Gilbert & Sullivan Society for once again providing the people of St Helens with a performance at the Theatre Royal last week, which can only be described as being superb.

The Society performed both Trial by Jury and HMS Pinafore and they certainly exelled themselves in both. It really was a pleasure to have been present.

When a town is blessed with such exceptional performers and societies, however, we are inclined to take them for granted, and not fully appreciate what talent is being shared with us, and in many circumstances we do not take advantage of the opportunity to watch such talent in action.

I should like to stress, therefore that local amateur societies like the Gilbert & Sullivan need to be supported by as many as possible so that excellent performances on our doorstep may continue for many years to come, and not, as is the case for many other societies, wither and die, not because of the lack of talent in performances, but because of the lack of public support.

So, support our local amateur societies by going to see their concerts or performances, by becoming a patron, or by helping in whatever way you find possible - perhaps even by becoming a member, and getting involved yourself. You never know - you may even enjoy yourself!

Matthew J Sephton, Brookside Avenue, Eccleston

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.