ORGANISERS of the annual village pantomime in Addingham want residents to shout out: "Oh no it isn't!" when they hear that the event is in jeopardy.

Every year the pantomime has been organised by the Friends of Addingham Primary School (FAPS) but a shortage of helpers means they may not be able to carry on.

John Whittam, chairman of FAPS, said that putting on the pantomime involved a lot of organisation and a lot of work, including administration, set-building, scenery, make-up, sound, rehearsal as well as acting and directing.

Mr Whittam said that the pantomime was under threat because there weren't enough volunteers to do the work.

He said: "It needs more people to help behind the scenes. It is a lot of work.

"In the past it was always run by the Friends of the Primary School - They don't feel they can commit the time and effort that's required. We are looking for other people to help."

The next performance is due in February and Mr Whittam says that there is plenty of time to get it organised if enough people came forward and volunteered to help.

Mr Whittam said: "We are hoping people will come forward and take an interest.

"We want to involve everyone in whatever part they want to play in helping to assist in whatever capacity.

"It is a team thing and everyone plays an important part.

"We are grateful to everyone who has helped in the past. Their help has been appreciated."

Mr Whittam said that a public appeal may prompt those who had helped with productions previously.

A statement from FAPS says: "The Friends of Addingham Primary School are currently deciding whether to fund, organise and run the village pantomime in 2004.

"Although the Pantomime is very much enjoyed by people in the village, and the children have a wonderful time taking part in it, the Pantomime organisers also shoulder a great responsibility together with a huge commitment of time."

In order to decide the future of the pantomime a meeting has been set for next Tuesday at 7.30pm at Addingham Primary School.

Anyone interested in or having views on the Pantomime continuing in the village next year, please come along to the meeting where you will be very welcome to join in the discussion of various options.

The chairman of the parish council Gordon Campbell said he was confident that villagers would rally round to help once an appeal had been made for volunteers.

Coun Campbell said: "If you ask people to help they usually come out in droves to help.

"Whatever event I have been involved in - when help has been needed the villagers have responded really well. I hope the Friends of Addingham Primary School get a good response."

The meeting will be attended by Rebecca Carter, who led the committee which revived the annual village Gala when it was under threat of disappearing for good.

Mrs Carter said: "I don't like to see traditional things disappear and I urge people to come forward and support the pantomime."