THE tale of dashing highwayman Dick Turpin is visiting Southwick next week with the opening of the annual pantomime in the village hall on Wednesday.

The production, performed by the Southwick Entertainers, opens with a preview for charity groups and organisations from Trowbridge.

Carolyn Bendell and husband Jeffrey have been busy making scenery and learning their lines since September. Mrs Bendell is hoping her back holds out as she is the rear end of a panto cow while her husband is the dame.

Mrs Bendell said: "Every year my husband plays the dame and he is brilliant at learning his lines.

"We have been doing the panto in Southwick for about 14 years so we are well-practised at it. This year we have a cast of about 30 and lots of them are children which is great. I am sure it will all come together and be all right on the night."

Tickets are available for performances on Thursday and Friday but nearly sold out for the last night of the show on Saturday. Tickets are £6 for adults, £4 concessions, available from Mrs Bendell on (01225) 761315 or Pat Simpson on (01225) 762701.