KNUTSFORD'S Scouting community turned out in force this week for the annual Gang Show and true to form this was an event to stand up against the best that local theatre in the area can offer

The upbeat opening number Come On feel The Noise set the tempo for the 2003 show with numerous comedy sketches and an impressive Getting in the Swing number to follow where the boys donned tuxedos and bow ties and the girls posh frocks.

There was a dark, grizzly start to the second half with Things That Go Bump in the Night, with a Queen tribute, murder mystery and magic act following close behind.

The lighting, set and sound was impressive throughout the two-hour show as was the choice of costumes.

This year every outfit imaginable made an appearance on the stage from a cricket kit, a butchers uniform and swimming trunks to feather boas, flip flops and stockings.

This year's annual show - the 16th to date - was one of the best yet.

Where else could you get a host of look-alikes - including five Freddy Mercury's and one Richard O'Brien in his Rocky Horror Show outfit, a magician attempting to cut a scout in half and a group of kids with feather dusters, hoovers and an ironing board?

If anyone can carry that off it is this committed gang of more than 100 who have spent months perfecting their act.

The show continues until Saturday at the Civic Centre, Knutsford.

Review by Shelley Smith