The Lapworth Players are facing a grave shortage of male actors to fill parts in their seasonal production of A Christmas Carol.

They may have a Scrooge, a Tiny Tim and a Bob Cratchett, but there are not enough men to fill many of the other parts in the Dickensian drama.

The play's producer Terry Powderhill said: "It would be disastrous if we weren't able to put it on. It would leave a big hole in the village's Christmas festivities.

"Our play is a Christmas tradition. It is very much looked forward to by the village and people come from Leamington, Warwick and Solihull to watch it."

Mr Powderhill admits there is often a shortage of dramatically-inclined men in amateur theatre companies, but says this year's production has left the group with a particular problem.

The players need five boys aged eight to 15 to play Scrooge's schoolfriends, another five aged 16 to 30 to play Scrooge's nephew Fred and his friends, and a further five to play party guests and businessmen.

The production has a number of songs, and the company also needs a musician able to play traditional music on a violin or accordion for one scene.

The roles are not for extras, as each one is a distinct character with lines and a costume, but Mr Powderhill believes they are simple enough for any newcomer to master. He said: "They are not very large parts and even a beginner would be capable of performing them. Enthusiasm and commitment are as important as a theatrical background.

"People of any age without any experience would be very welcome. It is also a very good opportunity to join a thriving and lively group."

Call 01564 778425 or email terry@jtpownet.demon.co.uk to help the Lapworth Players with their Christmas play.