AFTER 17 years of entertaining audiences in Leyburn, this year the town’s annual pantomime will not take place.

Traditionally every January since 1997 the Wensleydale Troupers have performed a humorous show based on well-loved family favourites. In fact the tradition goes back longer, with the Yore Musical Society and other societies performing since before the war.

The thespian band have usually been produced by Mrs Ann Peach of Leyburn who regrets that this year they have not been able to put on a show. She explained:” Regrettably some of our members have not been able to give their support for valid reasons.

“Also some of our younger members have exams and other commitments and have dropped out. We tried but sadly we have not been able to put together a show."

Over the years the group have always raised money at their performances and given generous donations to many local community groups. Mrs Peach, who as well as producing the shows over the years often plays a part, sometimes as a double act with her husband David says all is not lost.

She explained:” I want the group to continue and if we get enough support we will keep going. We have done so much good over the years.

“In September we will be casting for next year’s production and hopefully the show will go on.”

Leyburn resident Helen Godfrey who has attended many shows commented: “ I do hope the pantomime continues, it is a tradition in the town that we would not want to lose.”