A DEPLETED amateur dramatics group in Dover is appealing for more actors to come and join or it could be forced to fold.

The Dour Dramatic Group, which celebrates its 50th anniversary next year, is desperately searching for new male actors and young adults of either gender as the group is struggling to produce the normal two plays per year.

The group performs plays at the River Village Hall in April and November every year, and while April's production of Guilded Cage is due to go ahead with casting sessions this week there are fears that the November performance may not.

Chairman Peter Austen, 66, has been involved with the group for more than 30 years and said there needs to be a fresh approach.

He said: "We desperately need to attract some younger faces to bring some new energy into the group. We only have 18 members and we are a bit old school.

"It needs livening up a bit. We are coming to a crossroad and asking ourselves whether to call it a day or not. Obviously we don't want that to happen because we are a great bunch and socialise regularly."

As well as actors Mr Austen is also calling for volunteers to contribute in other ways such as backstage, props, lighting, publicity, make up and front of house.

The father of-two added: "We would appreciate any help we can get, productions are not all about the actors. We also need a bit more support from the local community. Some people in River don't even know we exist. We are thankful for the support we get from other dramatic groups but this is a community thing and we need them to get involved more."

Casting and rehearsals for April's performance started this week but you can still join the group by contacting Peter Austen on 01304 820615 or e-mail austenmargaret@yahoo.co.uk