OPERATIC society members are praying a smoke-damaged theatre can be cleaned up in time for their annual production.

Smoke poured into the Daneside Theatre in Congleton on Monday after two storage containers outside the theatre were set on fire.

Scenery and props kept in the containers were destroyed in the blaze, which sent smoke pouring into a theatre redecorated and refurbished only last year.

Trinity Amateur Operatic Society is due to stage a six-night run of Me and My Girl at the Daneside next month, and are hoping the theatre will be up and running in time.

Richard Jervis and Hannah McAllister take the main leads in the March 16 to 21 show, the first time it will have been staged in Congleton.

"It was a real shock when I heard about the fire, and we have been very lucky the damage was not worse,'' said society chairman David Martin.

"Hopefully the theatre should be back in business in time for Me and My Girl, and fortunately we are hiring all the scenery for the show.''

Leaning On A Lampost, The Sun Has Got Its Hat On and The Lambeth Walk are among the timeless numbers in a show which features a 50-strong cast.

"It is a combination of comedy, pathos and romance, and will feature lavish sets and costumes,'' said Mr Martin.

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