THE Milborne Players are back in harness again rehearsing for their new production 'Don't Misunderstand Me' directed by Bill Preston.

A highly entertaining comedy by Patrick Cargill, the plot revolves around Margery and Charles Flemming, who are preparing to entertain Charles' brother and his new wife Jane whom they have never met.

When Margery finds out Charles has forgotten to buy the wine she pops out to the off-licence in a panic.

In her absence, Robert arrives without his wife and the two brothers discuss their marriages and previous indiscretions when the doorbell rings heralding the arrival of a very attractive young lady asking for 'Charlie'.

With Margery due back any minute, Charles (who is as close as possible to having a heart attack) immediately panics when he sees her, much to the enjoyment of his brother!

What happens next sets in train a series of confusions, hilarious and increasingly desperate cover-ups, mistaken identities and wild deceptions.

When a further calamitous ingredient is added to the mix, together with a series of strange telephone calls, you have all the madcap elements that make this a hugely entertaining evening.

The play will be performed on Friday September 24 and Saturday September 25 at 7:45pm at Milborne St Andrew village hall.

The Milborne Players productions are always very popular so book your tickets early by contacting Sid Coe on 01258 837453.

Further information is also available on their web-site: www.milborneplayers.org.uk.

IT'S A little known fact but every year at the end of August Milton Abbey hosts one of the most wonderful music festivals in the south west.

The festival has been held at roughly the same time of year for over 35 years now and this year is no exception.

The only difference is that the new committee have put together a fantastic programme with more concerts than last year, more services, more venues and another festival choir!

A whole weekend of beautiful concerts and atmospheric services in the heart of the Dorset countryside.

The festival singers and the newly formed octet, Excelsior, will take part in two concerts – Serenade to Shakespeare and Vivaldi's other Gloria.

Between them Excelsior and the Chamber Choir will also sing at four services.

New events include a young artist recital with Georgia Way, a flautist from Bryanston School and a late night candlelit concert in St Catherine's Chapel with music for cello and voice.

On the Saturday evening there is a concert featuring Julie McKee Trio from London, providing a programme of easy listening music from the 1920s to the present day.

If you really feel too spoilt for choice and can't make up your mind which concert to attend, then treat yourself to a bargain weekend pass so you won't have to miss anything!

The festival starts with a free reception on Friday August 27 at 6pm where you can join performers and the festival team to launch events over a glass of wine and nibbles.

The event finishes on Monday August 30 at 4pm with the festival evensong.

For more details of the full programme and to purchase tickets please contact Emma Dorey on 01929 406170.