The group, which had not entered the contest for many years, beat off stiff competition from 15 amateur societies from across the East of England to walk away with the best adult play trophy for The Allotment. Written by Gillian Plowman and directed by Jan Roust, it was performed by Mrs Roust herself, Meg Harrison, Kerry Eburah, Cath Duhig and Kathy Philipot.

Its second play, Counselling, written and directed by Richard Parsons, was nominated for best original script. It starred DADS members Elaine Johnson, Steve Harper and Richard Abel.

DADS member Peter Duhig said: "Both entries performed excellently against what seemed very strong opposition. A wide variety of plays and entertainment were put forward and DADS members' confidence in having any great success was wobbling a bit, despite knowing they had done well.

"Just when it seemed we were not going to get an outright win, The Allotment walked away with the major award of the weekend. We were delighted."

Elaine Johnson and the whole of The Allotment cast were also nominated for best actress.The best actor category saw Steve Harper nominated in his first such venture.

Amy Collett