THE Athelstan Players will kick off this year’s Malmesbury Carnival with a poignant yet funny tribute to the entertainers we lost in 2016.

‘Gone But Not Forgotten’ will be a tribute in sketches, songs and dances to the stars that are no longer with us, from bittersweet moments to belly laughs the players’ 2017 revue will offer lively entertainment for all ages.

Newly elected Chairman, Ian Cambray-Smith said: “The Athelstan Players celebrate their 80th anniversary next year, so finding fresh ideas for the revue is not easy.

“We asked the members for some suggestions and, as so many well-known people from the world of entertainment seem to have passed away in the past 12 months, this was the most popular.

"The artists we are paying tribute to are a somewhat eclectic bunch, fromactors such as Alan Rickman and Debbie Fisher, comedians like Victoria Wood and Andrew Sachs to singers such as George Michael, Leonard Cohen and Prince.

“Like all communal organisations, the Players face challenges in our rapidly-changing social habits but the performing arts, and the technical backup necessary for their presentation, are something that all can participate in and enjoy.

“Malmesbury’s annual carnival is a major contribution to the town’s attraction as a place to liveand work and we are proud to make our contribution to its success.”

The Athelstan Players society was established in 1938 and has maintained a distinguished presence in Malmesbury ever since.

As well as regular dramatic and musical shows, the Players provide musical entertainment for other Malmesbury organisations and at town events such as St Aldhelm’s Day.

The shows begin tomorrow tonight at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Hall with additional shows on Friday and Saturday. Tickets cost £7 adults, £5.50 concessions and can be bought from Miles Morgan Travel.

For more information and to get involved go to athelstanplayers.org or contact the secretary at bridgemanat@aol.com