STAGE School: Auditions for the Christmas production of The Wizard of Oz take place on April 30.

This corrects the previously-given date in May, which was not correct.

VOLUNTEERS: Are needed by the Dysphasia Support Group, which gives help to people who have suffered a stroke, and who need to regain confidence and independence.

Could you spare two hours a week to assist the support group, which meets in the Four Lanes Room, Viables Craft Centre, Harrow Way, on Mondays, from 1.45pm to 3.45pm?

For an informal discussion about this very worthy volunteering, contact Ian Nicholson, dysphasia support organiser, on 01256 880094 or 07717 275754.

When I called in to meet the people in the group, on March 6, they were welcoming and friendly.

After a stroke, people may have speech problems, and referrals to the group are made by speech and language therapists.

Volunteers can help, are appreciated and some have had a stroke themselves or know of relatives with this problem.

For the first hour, the members and volunteers sit at tables and work together on programmes to improve their ability to speak.

June, the longest-serving volunteer, was helping a club member with a crossword.

It was Madge's birthday and there was a special cake and card to mark the occasion.

After refreshments, it was time for games, which included card and board games.

I watched people playing Rummikub, which is a game that requires them to match colours and numbers.

The support group is well organised and endorsed by the Stroke Association.

Volunteers make a valuable contribution, so please help if you can, in this, the year of the volunteer.