Christmas Cheer at The Leopard December 2008

Once again the Leopard's gigantic Christmas tree set the scene for the Christmas Show held on Thursday 4 December.  The candles glowed as the AB Players, appropriately attired, treated us to their version of Vera's Second Christmas (her First Christmas having been such a hit two years ago!)  They did not disappoint, as the chuckling audience proved.  After some seasonal readings by the group, the ever-popular Leopard-Spot Clog dancers energetically entertained us, interspersed with tunes on the concertina, fiddle and melodeon.  What is now becoming a tradition followed, as Graham Gorton declaimed Arthur Berry's Ode to the Oatcake before supper was served, again by the mob-capped Carol and Elizabeth.

After the interval members of the Inn Ringers hand-bell ringing group played some familiar season tunes.  It is always a pleasure to encounter such expertise and enthusiasm.  Apparently, soon after this performance, the ringers we to perform at the Barbican in London.  Can't be bad.  More readings by the AB Players led into the Leopard Spots' second appearance, and the Inn Ringers rounded off the evening with some sing-along carols.  The audience participation reached its climax with a special "AB" version of the Twelve Days of Christmas.  Congratulations to all the performers, including Margaret Beard who devised programme, Carol & Graham Gorton, Elizabeth Leslie, Elaine Sutton, and a newcomer to this event, Member Philip Leese, for rounding off the eventful year in such style.

Linda Shapcott.