The St Neots group are planning a five-performance run at the Priory Centre from Thursday, (April 17) of The Adventures of Mr Toad.

The fun-filled musical based on Kenneth Grahame's The Wind In The Willows has sold less than half the expected number of tickets and, unless ticket sales increase dramatically, the show's costs will empty the reserves the group has built up over the years.

VAMPS chairman George Kelly has issued an urgent appeal for local families to get behind the group in what could be their final show.

He said: "We want families to come and try the local theatre experience and see what fun it can be. Otherwise, we may not be around this time next year."

The group, which has been in existence for almost 50 years, has seen its audience numbers drop off dramatically over the past few years despite the growth in population in St Neots and surrounding towns and villages.

Mr Kelly adds: "It seems that the idea of a night out at the local theatre is losing appeal. This is being felt by many local groups even as recent television shows attract people to the West End musicals.

"We really need the residents of St Neots and surrounding areas to come to our help."

The Adventures of Mr Toad plays until Sunday, (April 20). Tickets start at £8 and family tickets (two adults and two children) are £32 and can be purchased from the box office on 01480 388922.