The Swindon Scouts and Guides Gang Show is in dress rehearsal but it still needs a dozen small drums, three unused toilet seats and two rubber chickens.

The props are vital to a spoof of the 12 days of Christmas, a number from Musical Magic, the title of the show, which begins its run at the Wyvern Theatre at the end of this month.

Scout and Guide groups had to raise a total of £10,000 to stage the show after its future was in doubt.

Disappointing ticket sales at the last one, which was in May 1999, meant that the Gang Show made a loss for the first time in 23 years.

In March this year the show received nearly £5,000 from the lottery fund.

This, together with fundraising and donations, has meant the show was able to go on.

Shows are staged every 18 months, and the first was in 1976.

This year's event will have an old-time feel, with performers dressed in period costumes.

Some will even mingle with the audience.

The cast of around 160 is made up of all levels of Scouts and Guides across the area, including Beavers, Cubs and Rain-bows, as well as some of the leaders.

Show producer Yvonne Jefferies said: "Our opening song is We're Back. It's to thank people who have supported us and made the show possible.

"Last time not enough people came but those who did said it was a superb show."

The show runs from November 29 to December 2, with tickets costing £5 to £8 and the proceeds going the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal.

Anybody who can help with props should call Swindon 694514.

Tickets for the show are available from the Wyvern Box Office on 01793 524481.