THE Courtenay Players are looking for a new director as Roger Partridge, involved with the group for the last 40 years, stands down from the role.

Roger's involvement with the group began in the late 70s, taking part in his first pantomime, Aladdin, in 1980. He co-wrote the script and starred as the dame, a role he would continue to play in the annual panto for many years.

He has written several pantomimes and sketches for the group, and helped organise club events, including barbecues, walks and the annual dinner.

Roger has directed many of the group's productions, with his last being the musical play 'Humbug', a twist on the much loved Charles Dickens story 'A Christmas Carol'.

Written in a similar fashion to a pantomime, the audience will be able to follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his road to salvation through a lively script with lots of great songs. The group will perform the show in January.

Jenny Pedrick, secretary for the Courtenay Players, had nothing but glowing praise for Roger: 'Whatever character he wishes you to play, he could do it himself, male or female.

'Roger has played many parts and played them all well. He is very versatile as he is a very good tenor, so he is able to adapt into any role. He is also able to design and build sets, which is one big thing we will miss because not many people are able to do this.

'The only time we have found Roger lost for words was when we were in a singing production. His wife appeared, and he knew he had become a grandad. We will all miss him.'

The group is always keen to find new members, but is now particularly keen to find someone to take over as director or who can help build their sets.

If you are interested, please call Stan Stormont on 07880 537946.