Members of the Cirencester Operatic Society were thrilled to find that they had won the Allan Booking Cup by NODA for the best Gilbert and Sullivan production in the South West of England in 2005.

The National Operatic and Dramatic Association, founded in 1899, sends representatives to all member Society productions to give valuable feedback on the standard of production and performance, sending comprehensive reports to the society after the show. It also puts on events around the country where all aspects of amateur theatre are celebrated and budding thespians can learn more about their craft.

Cirencester Operatic Society's performance of Ruddigore at The Barn Theatre, Beeches Road, Cirencester last November not only received a glowing report but, to the delight of the all in the Society, they discovered that the show had been judged to be the best Gilbert & Sullivan production throughout the South West in 2005.

Derek Hill, who produced the show, received the Cup and Certificate from the national President of NODA, Eric Smith, at the South West Area event staged at the College of Agriculture, Bicton, Devon during the weekend 2-4 September.