SCOUTS and Guides are preparing for a week-long entertainment extravaganza with their annual Gang Show.

Eight to 25-year-olds from more than 20 Oxfordshire groups have been rehearsing for this month’s show.

They have been working since September for the event at Radley College Theatre, from Monday, February 17 to the following Saturday. It will include songs, sketches and dance but the full details are being kept a secret until opening night.

It will also feature a piece to commemorate 100 years since the start of the First World War.

Gang Shows have been running in Oxford since 1951.

The idea originated from actor Ralph Reader. He organised the first one in 1932 for the London Scout Council’s camp site.

Nowadays it is put on each year by the Oxfordshire Scouting and Guiding Association.

Director Antony Morris, Deputy District Commisioner for Oxford Spires, has been involved with the production since 2007 and has directed the revue for two years.

He said: “The Gang Show is the idea of being able to give young people a chance to perform on stage and get involved backstage.

“We aim to have fun, but the guys in the cast work really hard. We aim to develop teamwork, skills and confidence.

“The beauty of the Gang Show is that there may be an item you don’t like, but hopefully the next item will be more to your taste.”

At Sunday’s rehearsal at Kennington Village Hall was Didcot Explorer Scout Christopher Gadd, 16, from St Birinus School. He said: “I’m in the dance team and I’ve also got two or three singing parts. This year will be my eighth show. I love performing with my friends.”

His sister Bobbie Gadd, 14, from King Alfred’s School, Wantage, said: “I love learning all the songs with my friends. It is really fun.”

Tickets cost £10 from oxfordgangshow.org.uk