THE Boroughbridge Hightimers are joining the growing parade of amateur dramatics groups around the world baring all in Tim Firth’s play Calendar Girls for charity and a Guinness World Record attempt.

“We’re raising funds for a worthy cause and hopefully also helping to achieve a world record for the largest number of amateur productions of one play within a one-year period,” says cast member Eleanor Hewitt, who will play the lead, bossy Chris, in next week’s run.

“Every production will help raise awareness and more funds for Leukaemia Research, and in addition The Boroughbridge Hightimers have produced their own fundraising One And Only Ever Alternative Calendar 2014. It’ll be available from the opening night, so make sure you place your order. It’s a great early Christmas gift.”

Sale proceeds from these calendars will go directly to Yorkshire Cancer Research.

“Many Hightimers members and their families have been touched by cancer in one form or another and it’s the remit of our organisation to donate to local charities, so this seemed a perfect match,” says Eleanor.

“As the main character says, if we can get a little closer to killing off this ‘cheating, sly, conniving, silent, bloody disease’, that has to be a good thing.”

Directed by Marjorie Newson, with assistance from producer and lead actress Eleanor, the Hightimers’ production will run from April 17 to 20 at 7.30pm nightly in the Coronation Hall, Milby, Boroughbridge.

Joining Eleanor in the cast will be Tammy-Marie Green as Annie; Renna Benson as Cora; Sue Simpson, Celia; Mary Day, Jessie; Eileen Toolen, Ruth; Kathryn Leverette, Marie; Mavis Smailes, Lady Cravenshire; Graham Fairbank, photographer Lawrence; Rob Walwyn, as John; Con Higgins, Rod; and Tony Lee, Liam.

“We have a large team working on the show as it requires a busy backstage crew, sound and lighting team and ironically involves the largest wardrobe, and the greatest number of costume changes, we have ever had,” says Eleanor.

Tickets are available from the chemist in the High Street or Boroughbridge post office or directly by email sent to thehightimers@yahoo.co.uk. Or phone Michelle Henstock on 01765 607247 or Barbara Horner on 01423 323764.

“We’re getting really excited – and a little nervous! – as tickets sales are going extremely well and we’re already nearly sold out for a couple of evenings,” says Eleanor.

• Please note, the play contains strong language and nudity.