THERE is one Worcestershire am-dram society that won't go down without a fight.

The members of Ombersley Dramatic Society are still reeling from last year's arson attack - a fire which destroyed almost all their props and set pieces - but their hopes remain high.

Next week the group will be putting on a production of Alan Ayckbourn's comedy Role Play - a show that will no doubt prove this merry band of performers are getting back on their feet.

Director Chris Martin, of Droitwich, called the fire "a severe blow". "We lost all the props," he said, "But since, we've had the panto and that has proved we can do it."

Role Play is Chris's directorial debut.

"For some time I've been encouraged to have go," he said. "But I've shied away from it. I went to see this show with my wife and some friends a few years ago. It was at the Swan and it seemed to me it would be quite good to direct - relatively easy because there is only one set and the lighting is simple."

Before joining the society in 1999, Chris had no real performance or stage production experience.

"I came to it fairly late in life, I suppose. But I've done a number of things over the years. The society has loyal followers. The hall (Ombersley Memorial Hall) isn't exactly large, I think it fits 100 people at the most, but the shows are always popular. The panto was a sell-out."

Role Play is at the hall on Tuesday, April 24, Thursday 26 and Friday 27. For tickets - £6 adults, £4 children - call Michael Turner on 01905 620757.