Organisers of Oxford’s annual Scout and Guide Gang Show have issued a final, urgent appeal for more musicians to join their gang.

The music and dance spectacular has been running for 57 years and this year’s event takes place in March.

But organisers of the two-hour variety show say one of the main attractions, a live orchestra, will not be included unless more musicians sign up by tomorrow.

Band members are urgently needed to play the alto saxophone, the trumpet, trombone and clarinet at rehearsals, and the show itself, at the New Theatre in George Street on March 10.

The Oxford Gang Show has been held in the city every year since 1951.

Gang show director Kim Griffiths said the show would not be the same without the orchestra.

She said: “The show has featured an orchestra since I can remember.

“That is what sets it apart from the other Gang Shows.

“It will be a real shame if we don’t have an orchestra, and I think a lot of people will be disappointed.”

Ms Griffiths said they had really struggled to fill the positions in the orchestra this year.

Many people initially signed up, but dropped out of rehearsals, citing hectic schedules and busy exam timetables.

Those interested do not have to be involved with the Scouting and Guide organisation.

But Ms Griffiths said they needed to be available for rehearsals tomorrow, on February 21 and 22, and March 1 and during the show and dress rehearsal week, from March 8.

She added: “People may be holding back because they think they have to be part of the Scouts or Guides, but that is not the case.

“It is a voluntary role and you don’t get paid, which may have also put some people off.

“But it’s a great deal of fun to be involved in.”

“As they say, ‘the show must go on’ — it will just be a massive shame if the orchestra is not a part of it.”

The Oxford Gang Show needs musicians who can play to at least Grade Six standard, can sight read and can attend all rehearsals.

The first rehearsal is from 10am tomorrow at the Scout Hall in Fairlie Road, Cowley.

To join the orchestra, call Kim Griffiths on 01865 767652 or email: kim@oxfordgang show .org.uk, chris@oxfordgangshow.org.uk or paul@oxfordgang show.org.uk awilliams@oxfordmail.co.uk