A GREAT-looking set and costumes ensured that go-to Gilbert and Sullivan Director David Tatnall would again deliver a topnotch show.

Alison Bradley was bright as Patience, a milkmaid who had attracted the attention of local poet Reginald Bunthorne (great confidence and personality from Tony Blackshaw).

Patience is also coveted by childhood playmate Archibald Grosvenor (the equally impressive Adrian Hickford) and the story revolves around their relationship with her. The local ladies are frustrated by the rivals’ obsession with the milkmaid and we are treated to some lively scenes as they swoon at the poets’ feet and vie for affection.

The ladies, particularly Katie Hickson (Jane), Anne Croudass (Saphir) and Lucy Whiteman (Angela) all performed strongly.

Any show that includes a pantomime cow shouldn’t surprise you when the more upbeat second-act features ping-pong balls, super-soakers and an impressive bubble-wrap-bath scene.

Top marks also for excellent sound, lighting and Marcus Reeves’ orchestra.