The timeless tale of Ratty, Mole and Mr Toad is once again being recreated, and this time it is courtesy of Teddington Theatre Club at Hampton Hill Theatre.

Mole is fed up with spring cleaning and abandons his hole, teams up with his friend Ratty and has startling adventures. And behind most of them is the irascible Mr Toad, who has much more money than sense.

First of all Mr Toad buys a caravan, but when it is overturned by a passing car he decides to own one himself, despite never having learnt how to drive.

His lack of motoring expertise soon lands him in hot water with the police, and following a hilarious court appearance Mr Toad finds himself languishing at Her Majesty's Pleasure, Then an audacious escape sees him reclaim his liberty.

This production contains the beautiful chapter Piper At The Gates Of Dawn, in which Mole and Rat meet Pan and rescue the baby otter Portly. There will be a thrilling car chase, a comic court scene and many touching moments.

p Wind in the Willows opens tomorrow and for details see the listings.

December 7, 2001 12:01