LOCAL thespians excelled in the Gloucestershire Drama Association's 2003 One-Act Play Festival held at the King's Theatre, Gloucester from June 4-7, winning three out of the eleven categories.

The Lechlade Players won the prize for the best play by a youth group, with The Ambush, and Stephanie Smith was awarded Best Young Performer for her part as Nye in the same play.

Jean Homer was adjudged Best Actress for her part as an elderly lady in the Cirencester-based Phoenix Players' production of Slice of Cake.

Adjudicator Sally Noble had particular praise for the quality of amateur dramatic societies in Gloucestershire.