MIND games met board games last night to provide entertaining light comedy at Manchester's Palace Theatre.

Bill and Sam - two elderly brothers running a small cafe - seemed to be without a care in the world as they plodded through life preparing meals, guessing customers' accents and playing their favourite board game, Ludo.

But then a young runaway - cockney sparrow Linda - persuaded the pair to let her stay at their home, sparking a series of events dredging up memories both men thought they'd left behind 40 years ago.

Loudmouth Linda, energetically played by Keeley Gainey, was soon discovered by her battle-axe nan Connie, powerfully depicted by Rosemary Leach.

But within seconds the old woman realised she'd also found husband Sam, who deserted her 40 years ago - and elder brother Bill, who she'd been secretly having an affair with at the time.

Just to complicate matters, Connie's best pal Winifred was soon on the scene. She had been married to the brother Connie had been having an affair with.

And, to add yet another twist, Winifred had also been playing away with Sam all those years ago.

It all sounds very complex. But last night's audience easily followed a pacy plot as characters toyed with each other's feelings and raised a few laughs as memories, regret and anger flooded back.

Solid performances by Sam (William Gaunt), Bill (Barrie Gosney), and Winifred (Geraldine Newman), added to this entertaining two hour show.

Twentysomethings looking for raucous, side-splitting comedy need not attend. But for anyone seeking an evening of clever, light, flowing, comedy, Pastimes is well recommended. Paul Broster

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