BARRY Howard and John Inman earned plenty of laughs playing the Ugly Sisters in Cinderella, the New Theatre’s pantomime in 1969-70.

What was particularly eye-catching for the audience was the large number of outfits they wore during the show.

Oxford Mail theatre critic Don Chapman wrote: “The best visual effect of all is the running fashion show provided by Barry Howard and John Inman.

“I must confess I didn’t bother to count the number of outrageous costumes they got through during the evening.”

The fact that they were able to switch so quickly and comfortably from one to another was due to Winnie Hounslow.

She worked as a dresser at the New Theatre for many years and was adept at helping stars to make swift changes for their next scene.

Her son, Bob, of Squires Close, Brize Norton, has sent in a signed photograph of the Ugly Sisters on stage.

John Inman wrote on it: “Dear Winnie, without you, it would not have been possible. I can’t thank you enough, All my love. John x.”

Barry Howard added: “Sincerest thanks for all your help, dear Winnie. All love. Barry x.”

Son Bob tells me: “My mother used to take in her tortoiseshell hand mirror as an aid to her work.

“John took a fancy to it and at the end of the run, begged her to let him keep it, saying it was his lucky charm.

“She did so and it must have worked, for he became a hugely successful star.”