The curtain raises this evening for one of the most eagerly anticipated events in Loddon's social calendar.

The Loddon Players opening night for their traditional pantomime.

This year, at the Lecture Hall in George Lane, the Players are performing Jack and the Beanstalk.

Months of planning and weeks of rehearsals have helped this popular group create a family pantomime with plenty of specially written gags with a strong local flavour.

The pantomime is on at 7.30pm this evening and is also being performed tomorrow and on Sunday.

This will be followed by further performances on January 15, 16 and 17, nd January 22, 23 and 24.

Performances on Thursday and Fridays will start at 7.30pm.

Performances on Saturdays are at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

This Sunday's performance is at 2.30pm.

Tickets have been selling fast and to be sure of a seat telephone Hazell on 01508 520162.