EXTRAORDINARY scenes involving a fire thrower, drum beats, tambourine and flute playing took place outside Andover's Cricklade College now- defunct theatre as Free Expressions competition entrants read aloud their 'save our theatre poems'.

Later, at the Art and Soul Caf, Tanya Ablett, aged 11, read her poem, which included the lines: "Pieces of wood are placed around our theatre but we will succeed to save the one and only fantastic Cricklade College Theatre!"

Judges, Vera Hughes, David Weller and Pam and Gerald Diamond, found it difficult to decide but after much deliberation, a poem titled 'death notice' won third place and £10.

It was written by Bobbie Coelho Robert Ablett's poem was highly commended.

Second prize of £20 went to Laurence Harrington for his 'save Andover's theatre' poem.

But first prize went to John Ardolino with his 'if they shut the theatre down'.

He wasn't present to collect his £25 prize but on Monday morning when he found out, the mature student said: "I can't believe it.

"The money will really come in use."

Free Expressions meet on the first Monday of every month at the Art and Soul caf, in Andover's Upper High Street.

The winning poem was If they shut the theatre down and it's reproduced below.

So where will you go, When you want to see a local show? And where will you sing and dance, Looking for that big chance? Where will you act out a play, On a balmy, hot midsummer's day, Should they shut the theatre down.

And where will the artists exhibit their wares, To "ohhs" and "ahhs" and reflective stares? And how will local and travelling talent find a wider audience To awaken and inspire by happenchance, Should they shut the theatre down.

If they shut the theatre down A bright light will leave this town. And those who seek laughter, earnest tears and the occasional joke, Will have to travel all the way to Basingstoke, Should they shut the theatre down.