THE ever-popular Greenock & District Scouts Gang Show is returning after a break of four years - as it becomes the longest running one in the UK.

A enthusiastic cast of almost 100 will be taking to the stage at the Beacon Arts Centre for a spectacular five night run next month.

For many of the performers it's their first time taking part in the production.

Greenock and District commissioner Martin Buchan said: "We have a lot of new blood combined with experience to make it a fantastic show.

"There are 75 members of the main cast and 26 in the Cub and Beaver cast who are all looking forward to taking to the stage for the first Gang Show since 2018.

"For almost half, this is their first ever Gang Show and their first experience of being on a stage"

Behind the scenes there will be around 80 adults making sure everything is alright on the night.

This year's production marks the 80th anniversary of the very first Greenock Gang Show and 20 years since Kenny Wilson, of local folk favourites The Wherries, took on the production.

Mr Buchan says the show remains a huge favourite with local audiences.

He said: "The Greenock public love it.

"We're the only provincial gang show in Scotland and we are the longest running one in Britain, as Glasgow - which was the longest running in Scotland - and London are not taking place.

"We could be the oldest in the world."

The show is co-produced by Kenny and his son Kyle.

Mr Buchan said: "It's almost like an old variety show, with singing, dancing and sketches, but with a modern twist.

"Kyle has written some extremely funny sketches and the audiences are in for a good family night out."

The show runs from November 15-19 in the Beacon Arts Centre at 7.15pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm.

Tickets are priced from £7.50 to £15 and can be booked by calling 01475 723723 or visiting www.beaconartscentre.co.uk