CLITHEROE parish players return to the stage with their autumn play, the comedy Post Horn Gallop.

Directed by Lesley Haworth, Clitheroe Parish Church Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society is heading for the country with the play set in a crumbling stately home, belonging to an aristocratic but rather poor family.

Trigger-happy eccentric Lord Elrood, played by Bob Cleeve, believes his castle is under siege from unknown – and rather unlikely – attackers, such as the postman and the delivery boy.

Protecting his Englishman’s castle, he lurks in corners with his shotgun at the ready.

His long-suffering wife Lady Elrood (Liz Wrigley) has resorted to opening the castle to the public, employing eccentric historian Miss Partridge (Jean Pells) as a guide for visitors.

In true farce style, some relatives, dodgy enemies and the clueless visitors all turn up at the same time – as well as a troop of 50 Scouts.

Society spokesman Brian Haworth said: “The play is a madcap farce, full of energy and eccentric characters.”

Also in the cast are Kelly Steed, Sam Smith, Brian Haworth, Trevor Lord, Helen Guiver, Roger Boardman, Bernard Kennedy and Damian Marsh.

Post Horn Gallop, CPCAODS, St Mary’s Centre, Wednesday, October 12 until Saturday, October 15. 7.30pm. Tickets cost £6 from St Mary’s Centre, Clitheroe Tourist Information Centre, Clitheroe Music Shop, or by calling 07974 323832.