PREPARATIONS are underway for the 45th annual Gang Show at South Hill Park.

The performance, scheduled for half term, is organised by Berkshire's Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Brownies and sees the troops take centre stage to entertain the crowds.

Shirley Burns, producer of the show, said; "This year we are celebrating 100 years of Cub Scouting so, as well as all the district activities that will be taking place this year to celebrate this, the Gang will be doing their best to entertain you.

"As usual, we have been rehearsing since the beginning of September. We rehearse on Sunday afternoons and although these sessions can be noisy, they are very productive.

"We are a team who work together and it is wonderful to see our members grow in confidence, learn new skills, make new friends and most importantly, have fun."

During the summer months the group keeps working raising funds to finance the show and try and keep ticket prices down.

Each year the show chooses a charity that helps youngsters, this year supporting Youth Line, a confidential counselling service, for children aged 12 to 25.

Auditions for next year's show are open to anyone who is in scouting or guiding aged nine or over. They will be held in July and group leaders have more details.

Tickets to Berkshire's only Gang Show can be booked on 01344 484123.