ASK anyone connected with the stage about props and you will see him visibly quake and shake, barely able to control the tremors.

Guns that tend to bang, or not, just when you want them to bang - or not!

Doors that won't open - or do when you prefer they remain shut!

Lights that mysteriously spring into life - or don't, no matter how many times you press the infernal button!

Telephones that don't ring when they should, or do when they shouldn't.

Down at St Joseph's Players sound & lighting expert Gabrielle Fitzsimons ensures none of the above hardly ever happens - or does, whichever is the case.

And the man responsible for making many of the props is former dentist Derek Thompson.

Gabrielle and Derek will have their work cut out in the Leigh company's May production "A Touch of Danger".

This tense Francis Durbridge thriller features gunshots, atmospheric flashbacks and a wild assortment of fights, murders and general mystifications.

"It should be fun," said Derek. "It will be perfect," said Gabrielle.

Tickets (£3.50) for the play (May 18-21) are available at Boardman's, Bradshawgate, Leigh. Playgoers can pay at the door.

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