Chorley Old Road United Reformed Church Hall. Runs until Saturday

THIS is a farce in the best tradition of the word -- fast, furious, and funny.

Roland Dickerby and his wife Julia own and run a health farm. The money to pay for it came from the proceeds of an insurance policy taken out on the life of Julia's first husband Sidney -- who promptly died in an accident just one month later. His body was never found and Roland -- Julia's second husband -- was the insurance man who advised her to take out the policy in the first place!

But life, we discover, has not been a bed of roses for Roland since, living under the constant scrutiny of scathing mother-in-law, Olivia.

However, things take a distinct turn for the worst when the presumed dead Sidney turns up -- and he's very much alive.

Rick Sykes is perfect as the stammering, bumbling Roland. His exchanges with Sidney, played flawlessly by Peter Haslam, are a joy.

Special mention from a very strong cast must also go to the larger than life cameo role played by Andy Withers, who as health farm resident, Hooper, does little to help matters.

Director Glen Mortimer sets the pace at breakneck speed, which only adds to the delight of an appreciative audience.

Beverly Greenberg