The Harrogate Advertiser

Harrogate Dramatic Society's proud and successful history continues into the new century with a production that positively gleams with star quality.
The opener to the Society's 55th season is not only visually stunning - it has clarity, style and cohesion too, with all the main parts impressively secure.
The cameo roles make the sort of impression one associates with the repertory companies of old, which is some indication of the dedication these amateur players consistently bring to their work.
Terence Rattigan's play starts in 1912 and the story, though a true one, may seem at face value a little dated.
The action centres on a 13-year-old boy and the theft of a five shilling postal order. The resonance of the drama and its modernity comes as we see the entire Winslow family count the cost of being associated with a "cause celebre".
In his most impressive performance to date, Paul Dunstan is totally credible as the plain speaking Arthur Winslow - the stern but fair father, determined to clear his son's name, whatever it takes.
The obvious decline in vigour as the strain of the case develops is both convinving and moving.
Sheila McIntosh as his wife, Grace is at her finest when she questions the sacrifices being made but her silent reactions at key moments are equally admirable.
Young Matthew Mather does well too, as Ronnie, particularly during the pivotal interrogation scene when the voice takes on a shriller quality as the pressure is applied.
And Stella Chatterton's confident reading of a complex "new woman" provides many entertaining historical highlights.

Ruth Badley.