STAVELEY Amateur Operatic Society returns to the topsy turvy world of Gilbert and Sullivan next week staging Ruddigore.

Also known as The Witch’s Curse, the society's lyrical lads and lasses bring the ghostly tale of love, betrayal and irritating bridesmaids to Staveley Village Hall, from Wednesday-Saturday, September 14-17 (7.30pm), with wonderful scenery created once again by Stewart Williams and stunning life size portraits by talented local artist Dawn Chandler.

Doyen of comic opera David Towers is in the director's chair and David Tattersall picks up the baton as musical director.

This year the popular theatrical company has been augmented by gifted young singers Alexander Taylor and Jolyon Stephenson who compete for the love of village maiden Rose Maybud, performed by the exquisite soprano voice of Rachel Mercer.

As Sir Roderic Murgatroyd, Graham Beavers leads the ghostly chorus of When the Night Wind Howls and provides the love interest for Janet Thompson (Dame Hannah) whose fine voice relates the story of the bad baronets of Ruddigore.

Tickets are available from Staveley Pharmacy or by telephone on 01539-722820.