NEEDING just two or three prompts throughout a 50-year career in amateur dramatics is no mean feat, but one which a Masham man has achieved.

Mr Bob Taylor, aged 72, has performed in more than 100 productions with Masham Players since he joined the group in 1951 after moving to the town with his wife to run a boot and shoe shop.

The Players had re-formed after the Second World War, and spotted Mr Taylor's talents in a nativity play at Christmas 1950. They invited him to join.

He said: "In those days it was a bit of a closed shop and you joined by invitation only. Now it's open to anybody, which is how it should be."

He is celebrating this landmark year by performing in the Players' production of The Full Treatment by Michael Brett, to be staged at the town hall from Thursday until Saturday, March 17, 7.30.

It is exactly 50 years since he first appeared with the players in A Distant Drum in March, 1951.

Over the years Mr Taylor has seen a lot of changes, including the move away from making footlights from biscuit tins. Proper stage lighting has allowed the actors to use less make-up.

He has played a huge range of characters: "I have done everything really, the whole spectrum from comedy to serious plays.

"The one we're doing at the moment is a good one; I have a good character part and I'm enjoying that."

While others struggle to learn lines, Mr Taylor says he is lucky because he finds it easy and has his wife, Doreen, to help him. His performances have won him numerous awards.

"I've never thought of trying to go professional," he said. "It's a hobby really, but at the same time we have to take it seriously. It has to be right, because people pay to come to see us."

Tickets for The Full Treatment are £3.50 (£2 for children) from the chemists in the town. Concessions night is Thursday.