MEN have saved Knutsford Amateur Operatic Society's autumn show.

They offered to play their part in the smash-hit musical Oklahoma after the society threatened to cancel a production for the first time in its 60-year history.

"It is fantastic news," said Barbara Fuller, who has been a member of the society for 30 years.

"We did seriously start to think that it wasn't going to happen but now we're just relieved that the problem is sorted."

The appeal for men, which went out in the Knutsford Guardian, led to a promising response. Twelve men are now busy perfecting their roles for the opening night on October 25 at Knutsford High School.

"For some it will be their first time on stage but they are enjoying themselves and the society hopes they may stay," she said.

Tickets will soon be available from the Stationery House in Princess Street.