WBLOS pantomime, Babes in the Wood, which ended its run at Royal Wootton Bassett Memorial Hall on Sunday, was a lively, colourful show, directed by Mike Davies, with musical director Pip Honour.

There were plenty of corny gags and the comic action included a madcap dash around the auditorium.

Linus Davies and Citty Aspell as the Babes – Simon and Sophie – were the charming children of the evil Sheriff’s late brother. The Sheriff, who attracted a chorus of boos and hisses, was played with panache by Stuart Dark, who in previous pantos has been The Dame!

This time the excellent Ben Robinson had the role of Mrs Piper (mother of Tom who stole the pig).

Tammy Hollands, hilarious as Tom, excelled in a great slapstick scene that even surprised the band.

Romance, and some lovely musical numbers featured Robin Hood (Dee Dee Aspell) and Maid Marion (Hatty Aspell) – sisters who were superb as Principal Boy and Girl. The Sheriff’s inept Deputies, Doo-Dah and Day, were Ross Bathurst and Rachael Bold. Denise Jefferies was a delightfully comic Friar Tuck; Little John was played by Brooke Bathurst and Will Scarlett (all in red) was Ailsa Burois. Kathy Sterry was the Messenger. An able chorus completed the line-up.

Action moved from the Market Square to the Castle, complete with portcullis and imposing crests, the castle kitchen (watch out for broken eggs and exploding ovens!).

The special effects were fantastic. The action ventured along forest paths, into a glade, and Robin’s den.

Alarms, adventures and discovery of deception all fuelled the fun. On the first night, the Mayor, Cllr Ian Ferries, was among members of the audience who were coaxed on stage to join in the Teddy Bear’s Picnic song.

Many familiar tunes were included in catchy song and dance numbers, with lyrics adapted by the director. It all ended happily, in true pantomime tradition.