IT'S hard to beat a comedy staged by the talented cast and crew at St Vincent's Dramatic Society.

And audiences are in for a treat with the company's next production, Running Riot.

The society has built up an enviable reputation for its comedy plays, which are said to always leading the audience wanting more.

The theatre's last production was the well received and critically acclaimed Agatha Christie's A Murder is Announced.

Howard Clare said: "Ninety percent of our productions are comedies.

"Our last production was a drama and was enjoyed by the audience but we are known for our comedies."

He added: "Audiences can expect a lot of enjoyment."

In a poignant touch the production will be dedicated to friend and fellow society member Christopher Higgins, who died on October 4.

Mr Clare said: "Chris was chairman for 15 years. He was committed to the society and was in two plays 'Happiest Days of Your Life' and 'Fish out of Water' and he will be sadly missed."

Running Riot focus on a greengrocer who flees to Europe to escape from his domineering wife, on the way he is mistaken for an Olympic athlete from whom big things are expected in the 5,000 metres and becomes entangled in espionage. And cue plenty of laughs.

Mr Clare, who plays the hotel keeper, said there are many different comic elements to the play, in which many family members are starring.

He said: "The cast at St Vincent’s Drama Society are having a lot of fun at rehearsals this has helped by the family connections.

"We have sisters Margaret and Tricia, bother and sister Dennis and Amber, grandson Shaun Clare. And not forgetting grandmother Maureen Clare who is producing the play."

Keith Hindley plays the fleeing man, who was awarded runner-up for Best Supporting Actor in Drama at the Bolton Amateur Theatre Awards for his role in Murder is Announced and Mr Clare won Best Support Actor in a Comedy for his part in Out of Focus.

Mr Clare and Emily Sung won the 'Area 5' Award from National Operatic & Dramatic Association for their parts in Out of Focus.

Running Riot opens on October 23 and runs until October 27 at The Parish Centre, Rutherford Drive, Bolton. For tickets ring 01942 818688 or 07415771665.