AN amateur dramatic group is planning something special to mark 25 years on the stage.

Fresh from the success of their latest pantomime, Robin Hood, the Wriggle Valley Players are now planning something new to mark the anniversary.

The amateur dramatics society, based in Leigh, near Yetminster, is swapping Sherwood Forest for New Orleans as it prepares to host a Mardi Gras-themed masquerade ball at Leigh Village Hall.

The event is set to take place on Saturday, February 17, from 7pm, featuring live music and a two-course meal, with all profits from the event donated to local good causes.

Paul Attwell, chair of Wriggle Valley Players, said: “We wanted to think of a spectacular way to mark our milestone anniversary and we wanted to do something which we hadn’t tried before.

“We’re used to getting dressed up and stepping out on stage but this will be an opportunity for everyone who supports us to put on a mask, maybe find a few feathers, and help us celebrate more than 25 years of performances while raising money for local charities.”

The group, which has members from across West Dorset and South Somerset, has been performing pantomimes and summer plays since it was founded in 1998.

Recent shows include Robin Hood, Snow White, Peter Pan and The Nutcracker.

Adult members are supported by junior members who are part of partner organisation, Power of Performing.

Paul added: “It’s always a huge amount of fun and we’ve made a lot of memories over the years.

“Now we want to put on an event which celebrates all that we’ve achieved and we hope people will join us for what we’re sure will be a really enjoyable evening.”

Tickets for the ball cost £30, including a two-course meal (a hog roast or a vegetarian option and pudding), live entertainment from pop/rock covers band District 7, and a disco providing music until late.

For over-18s only, the ball will also feature Leigh’s famous pop-up pub.

For more details, and to buy tickets, visit www.wrigglevalleyplayers.co.uk.