A FOREST drama group is appealing for anyone who can play a piano or organ to help them produce their Christmas panto after the sad death of their musical director.
Ken Prisk had written both words and music for Coleford Dramatic Society's popular Christmas production for the past 30 years, as well as playing the music for the shows.
He died in May shortly before his 80th birthday.
"It is very sad – he had just completed this year's panto, Snow White and the Severn Dwarfs, and handed it over," said producer/ director Denise Voyce, who has had to step in to organise the show.
"The preparations were under way for his 80th birthday as well. It all happened so suddenly – we were talking about the show on the Thursday night and on the Saturday he was dead. He will be very badly missed by everyone at the society."
The 100-year-old society begins rehearsals for its Christmas pantos in October. The productions, which always involve local children in the cast, often see as many as 30 players on stage.
"We have not fixed any firm dates for the performances yet but we normally stage them at the Community Centre just before and just after Christmas, with six or seven performances," said Mrs Voyce.
"We have asked around locally for somebody who can play for rehearsals and the performances but we have not had any luck so far."
She said anyone who could offer help should call the society's secretary, Hazel Gabriel, on 01594 832305.