15372/2AN original tale of cops and robbers will be gracing the stage at Potterne Village Hall this week.

Potterne Panto Group present their annual pantomime which is called Crafty Crooks and Panto Peelers. It is on today at 7.30pm, tomorrow at the same time and on Saturday at 2pm and 7.30pm.

Written by Jackie Sawyer, who also directs the show, it is set in London's Theatreland.

Mrs Sawyer did not want to divulge too much about the plot but revealed that it involves other pantomime characters including Aladdin, Little Red Riding Hood and The White Rabbit.

The panto group has welcomed new members including Leah Gale, Daisy Manley and Gemma Marshall as a trio of felines who give an insight into the darker side of Theatreland.

Returning to the panto stage after a gap of 17 years is Steve Sawyer while Tony Bailey plays Sgt Tango.

Mr Bailey has appeared in every single pantomime since the group started 21 years ago.

Mrs Sawyer said: "Everybody involved with the group enjoys it and so does the public.

"We tend to write our own pantos, as we have done all the traditional plays, sometimes twice."

Tickets are selling well and the Friday and Saturday night performances are sold out.

To check ticket availability for the other shows contact Potterne Post Office.

The village pantomime raises money for local groups and other good causes.

Last year £1,900 was raised which benefited 13 local groups and organisations.