HILARITY and confusion in large doses is promised by Weeton & Huby Players' next production.

The company is back in action after an 18-month break with Neil Simon's farce, Rumours.

The cast features several new faces and the return of a former stalwart. Directed by Pauline Moulsdale, Rumours is a fast-paced chaotic account of four couples attending the most unusual wedding anniversary party anyone is likely to encounter.

It sees Mike Harris making his comeback with WHP after moving back to the area. He appeared in several productions with the Players in the 1980s before moving to the Middle East and London.

New faces are Neve Carey, Rob Wilyman and Elio Costantini all making their stage debuts in a cast also featuring Heather Goring, Chris Corkill, Alison and Neil Muffitt and Chris Holland.

Pauline Moulsdale said: "We are doing the British version of one of Neil Simon's best-known plays. It's great that our audiences will see some fresh faces as well as some established favourites in a play that promises plenty of hilarity and surprises.

"Our actors are really enjoying developing their characters in a plot that contains all the essential elements of farce - misunderstandings, mistaken identity and split second timing."

Rumours will be staged at Almscliffe Hall, Huby,near Otley, on November 24-26 at 7.45. Tickets (£7.50) can be ordered by calling 01423 734953; e-mail patrog499@hotmail.com