WITH the countdown to the World Cup almost over Turnpike Community Theatre are in the final stages of their pre-match preparations for the opening night of their summer production – Double Dutch.

The play brings to life the story of gymnasts Hilda Smith and Ada Smith as they travelled from Leigh to Amsterdam in 1928 to be among the first women to take part in the Olympics.

In a summer with a sporting focus, this production celebrates people from Leigh who have represented England in the international sporting arena.

The play is a reminder of two of Leigh’s sporting greats (who are no relation) and who collected bronze medals.

The production will also feature gymnasts from Leigh’s Marsh Gymnasium, a fitting tribute to the Olympic athletes who also trained there many years ago.

The production will be staged at XII Apostles’ Club, Westleigh Lane, Leigh, on June 16 and 17 at 7.15pm. There will be no performance on June 18 as previously billed - due to a clash with England’s World Cup match.

Tickets are £4.50 and £4 (concessions).

To purchase tickets for this production please contact Gill on (01942) 603195 or visit Finesse Gift Shop (Bradshawgate, Leigh).