SALISBURY audiences have a treat this week, in the excellent touring production of Agatha Christie's iconic thriller The Mousetrap, directed by Ian Watt-Smith.

Incredibly, this murder mystery, set in the snowbound Monkswell Manor in the post-war years, has been staged continuously for 60 years.

There is a murder, but the secret of the killer's identity has been preserved zealously, to ensure new playgoers' enjoyment.

The scene is created perfectly by the splendid, substantial oak-panelled set with lofty stained glass window, open fire and chintz covered sofa and chairs.

As the blizzard worsens, drifts ensure that the manor is inaccessible - until the inquisitive Sgt Trotter (Lewis Collier) arrives on skis. Anna Andreson and Nick Barclay play Mollie and Giles Ralston, who have been married for a year, and have just opened the manor as a guest house. The niceties of the era are maintained in their formal introduction of their guests, about whom they know only that they have reserved rooms.

They are an interesting assortment of strangers. Louise Jameson is the cantankerous Mrs Boyle, whose dislike for draughty rooms and cold radiators causes her to monopolise the fireside chair.

Oliver Gully is Christopher Wren, a vivacious, volatile practical joker who relishes macabre nursery rhymes. Major Metcalf, played by Tony Boncza, is a solid, military type, while Gregory Cox, as Mr Paravicini, is flamboyant. Miss Casewell, an independent woman who has lived abroad, is played by Amy Downham.

Who will die, and at whose hand? Is there a motive from the past? Is there a London link?

Good effects and appropriate incidental music enhance the atmosphere of this brilliant period piece in which the mystery is tempered by laughter.

Catch it if you can, before it moves to the next town in its extensive national tour.