SHARPSHOOTING actors and actresses took time off from rehearsals at the weekend to launch a military-style fundraiser for a cancer charity.

Spennymoor Operatic Society are on stage at Spennymoor Town Hall this week with their version of the hit musical Annie Get Your Gun.

Beverley Fishburn and Malcolm Cooper, who play Annie Oakley and trickshot marksman Frank Butler, are backing the Marie Curie Cancer Care's event Carry on Soldier at Catterick Garrison on Saturday, July 13.

A rifle range is one of the challenges on the day when there will be a 25ft climbing wall, drill exercises, an assault course and training from a small arms unit. Call Carol Oliver on (0191) 382 3311 to register a team of four.

The show is produced by Eric Hickson and directed by Bob Howe and runs until Saturday at 7pm. Tickets are from John Welsh Jewellers, in Spennymoor High Street, or from (01388) 420057