IT'S business as usual for members of Burneside Amateur Theatrical Society as the princes of panto call time on their next production.

Down at the Bryce Institute it's organised chaos as the clock ticks closer to the opening night of Old Father Time.

Producer Gordon Lawson complete with hi-tech headset watches as the various sets slip into place: Neptune's Cave; the King Kong-like Island of Eternal Darkness backdrop, and the fine looking timepiece that keeps the cogs in motion.

As usual hours of sweat and toil has been poured into BATS latest wind-up.

The sets painted by Guy Wilson, Ken Bates and Don Mounsey are superb; colourful costumes courtesy of Liz Archer; fire flashes, Bruce the Shark, a yellow submarine and props inspired by the Blakes 7 spaceship control desk.

Old Father Time sees no expense spared with omin-directional mics and a new £8,000 lighting system.

Time doesn't stand still during rehearsals as the eager cast await their moment.

Laura Leach (eight), Amy Geraldo (eight) and Robin Baines (four) as the young villagers tell me they're excited at taking part in the panto.

Steve Hall strides around looking every inch the timelord, as castle clock keeper Mr Timepiece.

Double-act Tik (Nicola Hulme) and Toc (Mark Crook) are also on hand.

Shaun O' Sullivan is Dame Beatty Time the palace housekeeper and Mark Time is her son (played by Helen Little), landlord of the Watchmaker's Arms.

All is well in the land of Summertime until wicked Old Father Time (Oliver Acland) refuses to leave and make way for Baby New Year's arrival.

As a result the pendlelum swings towards the chaotic as everyone tries to recover time.

"This is going to be a spectacular panto in the traditional style, with a nod to the modern," chimes Gordon, seconds ticking away.

And as Kendal's first lady of the piano, Joyce Humber, strikes up the opening bars of The Best of Times is Now, the egg-timer has run out for me.

Sunday tea beckons and I take my leave.

Old Father Time runs tonight (Friday), tomorrow (January 13) and from Wednesday, January 17, until Saturday, January 20, at the Bryce Institute.

Performances are 7.30pm with 2.30pm matinees on Saturdays.

Tickets £4/children £2 on 01539-720498.