TWO actors took time out from their Christmas play rehearsals to do some research - at a Stratford butcher's.

Guy Adams, who is to play Scrooge, accompanied by Tiny Tim, John Roberts, visited Barry The Butchers in Chapel Street to have a look at a real goose as one features so prominently in the story of how the old miser learns to love his fellow men and celebrate Christmas properly.

The pair are in a musical version of A Christmas Carol which has been adapted from the Dickens classic by Stratfordian Reg Mitchell.

It will play four performances at Stratford's Civic Hall between December 10 and 12 in aid of the The Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

The musical was first produced to great acclaim at the Swan Theatre in Stratford two years ago.

This new production, directed by Steve Newman, has had several new musical numbers added to the original score by Mr Mitchell, who together with Andrew Holtom will be its musical director .

A Christmas Carol has a 30-strong cast and Guy Adams, Scrooge himself, appropriately organises ghost walks around Stratford in his spare time.

Audiences of all ages are invited to go along and enjoy a piece of old-fashioned Christmas entertainment.

Advance bookings can be made at Falstaffs in Sheep Street, Stratford, on 01789 298707 or from the civic hall box office on 01789 414513.

Tickets are £8 for adults and £4 for children. A gala night and reception on December 10 costs £10.