THIS play is something of a rarity -- a comedy about that most serious of organisations, the Inland Revenue.

But not only that, it is a comedy with a sharp twist in its tail, that keeps the audience guessing about what's going to happen right up until the end.

This gives the play an edge on many of the bland comedies around. However, to do it justice you need a strong and experienced cast. This was no problem for Tyldesley Little Theatre last night.

The play revolves around the mysterious Miss Flint. Tom Lambert is our hero who finds himself in hot water with the tax man. His accountant -- and also his ex-wife Sarah -- has created Miss Flint in order to evade taxes.

Unbeknown to Tom, according to his books, the invisible Miss Flint is an employee of his. The plot thickens as the tenacious tax man Mr Dodds begins to investigate.

Ian Taylor gives a marvellously natural performance as Tom, and Ken Berry is excellent as the chasing tax man.

Hanna Nixon was terrific as the flighty Lucy with whom the play opens, while Tony Thompson stole most of the laughs in his role as Tom's friend and cleaner, the irrepressible Albert.

The play is directed by Denis Beardsworth, and this has resulted in a slick, professional production. Overall this is an entertaining night out which once again highlights Tyldesley Little Theatre's fine reputation for producing good strong comedy productions.

Beverley Greenberg