Stars Shine in Wilcombe's Wind and the Willows

TOAD, Ratty, Mole and Badger were joined by a cast of future stars in Wilcombe Primary School's 2009 Summer production - The Wind in the Willows.

Even headteacher Gary Chown joined in on stage, but was admittedly outshone by pupils when they performed at the New Hall on July 1, and 2.

Mr Chown added: " I was only told last night I was going to be on stage - I'm lucky because the rest are strong, so they are able to carry me along.."  

"The New Hall is a great community venue, it's great for the parents, it's air conditioned, good seats, good viewing and it gives the children a real sense of occasion. I think they rise to being on a stage like this."

All 64 children in key stage two took part in the play as weasels, stoats, and woodland creatures. They have been rehearsing for three weeks. Christine Rose who directed the play said: "We've been rehearsing for three days a week. It's been fine, the children had their SATs and we've been doing this straight after those exams. It's a nice way to round off their primary school education."

Keeley Mottram who played Ratty said: "On the first night I was a bit stage frightened, but the second night has been a bit better.

"It took me a couple of weeks to learn the words. Every year we do a production for the year sixes who are leaving, so this is a good way to round it off."

Toad was played by Alisha Manser. She added: "I'd love to do more performing in the future I really enjoy it. Tonight has been really great fun."

"I'm going to miss Wilcombe Primary School and all my teachers."

Gary Chown rewarded those in the play to a lie in the next morning by saying that school would start at 10.30am instead of 9am.