Local feet in Romsey have been tapping away dramatically over the past couple of weeks to help Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society secure victory at two major drama competitions.

Group members left the Eastleigh Drama Festival with a real spring in their step with the trophy for best senior play, beating off much competition.

Adjudicator Peggy Batchelor from the Guild of Adjudicators hailed its production of Michael Frayn's Mr Foot as "a most professional performance in every way".

Members followed this with a second outstanding victory at the Totton Festival of Drama. Not only did they receive the Archie Gay Trophy for the most outstanding production, but also cast members Richard Benton and Beverley Siddle won best actor and actress for their portrayal of Geoffrey and Nibbs in the classic comedy.

Adjudicator Paul Fowler was full of praise for Emma Golby-Kirk's direction of the two-hander, which scored an impressive 90 marks.

For director Emma and the actors, it was their first time on the festival circuit, so they are delighted with their triumph.

"The dramatic impetus lies in the language and this is what we have focused on," said Emma.

"We feel that we have a short, sharp, highly entertaining piece and keeping audiences gripped from beginning to end is the measure of our success."

Having qualified alongside runner-up team Chameleon theatre Company from Southampton in the Eastleigh Festival, RAODS will be nominated for entry into the 29th British All Winners Festival at Castle Hall in Hertford from July 22 to 27, organised by the National Drama Festivals Association. Their win at the Totton Festival also means they will go through to the southern divisional final being held on Saturday, April 13 at Digby Hall in Sherbourne.

There was also a triple victory for some of Southampton's younger actors. Oaklands Youth Theatre 006 took three awards at Totton for their original play, Gagging for It!, with 22-year-old writer and director, Danny Sturrock taking the adjudicator's award, Alex Chalk best youth actor, and the backstage crew received the trophy for technical achievement.

Festival secretary Mike Farleigh was delighted with its success.

"The festival was a celebration of drama in all senses. A great learning tool, a showpiece for amateur theatre, an opportunity to see new plays and socialise with like-minded enthusiasts," he said.

"Make a note of next year's dates - March 17 to 22."

n If you would like more details of the national competition contact Mike Farleigh, 16 Greenfields Avenue, Totton, SO40 3LS. Tel: 023 8086 2882, or e-mail cfarleigh@freeuk.com