SPECIAL permission has had to be granted for a Worcester amateur dramatics company to produce dazzling costumes for its forthcoming show.

Planning for the production of the Gilbert & Sullivan HMS Pinafore (Australian Version) started early for the well-organised Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society (WODS). In fact, it was back in 2004 that WODS' wardrobe mistress Gloria Chapman began her search for the best costumes for the show.

"She telephoned the length and breadth of the British Isles before finding The Haslemere Wardrobe, the only costume company that would be making the costumes in 2005," said a WODS spokeswoman.

"Special permission to copy the costumes from the Australian originals then had to be granted by Simon Gallagher Productions."

The cast of WODS is now hoping the costumes will prove a huge hit with audiences when the show is staged at Worcester's Swan Theatre. "They are flamboyant and will enhance this slick and very amusing production, which should not be missed," added the spokeswoman.

The show is of particular sentimental significance for the cast as it was WODS' first-ever production when the group was founded in 1892.

On Friday, April 8, the Worcester News ran a competition to give away three pairs of tickets for HMS Pinafore.

The lucky winners were Peter James-Evans, of Grafson Place, Droitwich; Tom Bourne, of Westways, Rushwick, and Miss A McDonald, of Arboretum Mews, Worcester. The show runs at the Swan Theatre from Wednesday, April 20, to Saturday, April 30. For tickets, which cost from £10, call Huntingdon Arts box office on 01905 611427.