THE answer to that question is: rather a lot when there’s a world record at stake.

Westbury Show was the unlikely setting for an attempt on the record for the fastest panto, and the amateurs of the Westbury Players came within seconds – four seconds to be precise – of getting their names into the record books with their version of Jack and the Beanstalk.

The world record attempt was one of the highlights of the popular village show, which is the major fund-raiser for Westbury Parish Hall.

The current world record was set in 2009 when Christopher Biggins, Konnie Huq and Steve Jones performed Snow White in five minutes and 50 seconds.

The performance had to be a traditional panto and had to have a dame, principal boy, an animal, double entendres and a song.

Jan D’Ambrogio, who is chair of the parish hall, said: “Unfortunately they missed out on the record, but they will be having another go.

“The show was very successful and we had lots of people despite a downpour just before the start.

“We moved the show from July to September about 12 years ago because of the weather and we started a flower and produce show six years ago.

“The flower show is a really popular feature and we had more than 250 entries.

“We had entries from as far away as Gloucester.

“The baking section is popular and we have a women against the men category for making flapjacks which is always very competitive.”

Among the attractions were the Harmony Twirlstars marching band from Cinderford, Showman Shane, an animal corner, live owls and music from local performers.

Mrs D’Ambrogio said: “The field was busy the sun shone and there was a good atmosphere.

“The show is our main fund-raiser for the hall and it is also a good opportunity to showcase the facilities. We had the lounge area refurbished last year.”