THE PIPES OF FUN!: Between November 26 and December 1, Tredegar Thespian Players presented their Christmas pantomime, Tom, Tom, The Piper's Son, which was directed by Les Jones and Lorna Griffiths, at Tredegar's Little Theatre.

All the old favourites appeared - the funny and fabulous Jim Meyrick, the not to be outdone Margaret Colbeck, and the talented Julie Mcguire School of Dance.

The show was captivating and hilarious from the start and the children in the audience especially enjoyed it.

Dame Trot, played by Alun Collins, and Flip and Flop, played by Jim Meyrick and Les Jones, had the kids shouting and pointing and standing up in their eagerness to be heard.

The Demons, played by Carmella Monk and Pat Williams, had everyone booing and one little boy asking to go home every time the thunder and lightning brought them on to the stage.

Obviously, much time had gone into this production, rehearsing and practising and a lot of dedication and application. But I have never seen a bad play or show at this theatre!

All this would not have been possible without the assistance of the production team, and the Thespian players would like to thank them, with special thanks to Mike Williams for his expertise and the time spent assisting with the lighting design, and to Helen Howard for her input and expertise in costume design.

The performance was dedicated to the memory of Mr Basil Jones - Basil wrote most of this script.

The Thespian Players' next production is Page 3 Murder, by Larry Beghel, from March 6-8, 2008. It will be directed by Carmella Monk and will be her first excursion into directing.

ONE OF LIFE'S PLUSSES: A 50+ meeting will be held regarding healthcare at Ebenezer Chapel, Abertillery, on Thursday, December 13, at 10.30am. The meeting aims to deal with any questions or worries about GP surgeries, hospitals or nursing care.

The speaker will be Sheila Kenniford from Blaenau Gwent local health board, the head of intermediate care. Everyone over 50 is welcome. Mince pies, tea and coffee will be available.

If you need transport or have any special requirements, contact Ruth Iles, Public Involvement Officer, at Rassau Resource Centre, on 01495 353874/309951.