ASPIRING thespians are being sought by Otley's resurgent amateur theatre community.

The newly-relaunched Otley Players, featuring some of the original members of Otley Community Players and Otley Little Theatre, staged its first, trial project on May Day.

That was a Mummers play and the favourable reaction from the audience has inspired the group to stage its next production, A Very Petty Christmas, at this year's Victorian Fayre.

Rehearsals for the show, which has been written by a cast member and is inspired by real petty crimes committed in Otley in the 1860s, have begun.

Otley Players' Chair Amy Verity, however, is still keen to recruit some more performers.

She said: "We are very excited about the relaunch of the players.

"We still need a couple of performers though, particularly a man to play a dashing Victorian soldier and some singers, too.

"We’re a friendly bunch and it doesn’t matter if you’ve no experience at all, just come along and join in."

A Very Petty Christmas will be performed at different locations around town during the Victorian Fayre on Sunday, December 3, with two performances, at 4pm and 7pm, beginning at Otley Courthouse.

Amy added: "Wrap up warm!

"The players will take you outside for the show but don’t worry, if the heavens open we have an undercover backup!’

The performances will be free and are suitable for all.

Anyone interested in joining the group as a performer, or to help with props, writing, sets or costumes is asked to call 07960 777 761 or visit the Otley Players Facebook page for more details.

Potential new members are also welcome to attend the group's weekly, 8pm Wednesday meetings upstairs at the Horse and Farrier pub.