CENTENARIAN Norrie Woodhall is proving that the show must go on - by appearing in the latest production by The New Hardy Players despite losing sight in one eye.

Mrs Woodhall, who will be 101 in December, is the last of the original Hardy Players and is appearing in the new players' production of Under The Greenwood Tree.

The players were formed last year to celebrate Mrs Woodhall's 100th birthday and to promote the work of Thomas Hardy.

Performances of the play will be held across Dorset next month and coincides with the publication of Mrs Woodhall's life story, Norrie's Tale, an autobiography of the last of the Hardy Players.

Devina Symes, of the New Hardy Players said: "They say the show must go on and this is the spirit Norrie Woodhall has adopted - in spite of recently losing the sight of one eye - to appear in this year's production by the New Hardy Players."

She said the production, which has been adapted by Jennifer Bailey, includes original songs from the 19th century sourced for the play by Tim Laycock.

"Performances of the play will be held during September and will coincide with the publication of Norrie's life story.

"The 2005 production of Return Of The Native raised £2,000 for the Joseph Weld and Trimar Hospice and CancerCare Dorset Trust.

"The profits from this year's performances and Norrie's book will go to the same charity."

The players will be performing at Corfe Castle on Tuesday, September 5, at 5.15pm, and normal admission charges to the National Trust property apply.

A second performance is planned for the United Church in South Street, Dorchester, on Sunday September 10 at 2.30pm.

Tickets are £4 from the tourist information centre, Antelope Walk, Dorchester, or on the door.

Other performances will be held in Somerset.