JAMES Button's superb, spacious set encapsulates the atmosphere of Wood Hills Golf Club lounge bar, in Salisbury Playhouse's entertaining production of Love on the Links, directed by Ryan McBryde.

A well-costumed cast, relaxing in pre-war Surrey, are characters from PG Wodehouse's golfing stories, now skilfully adapted by Jon Glover and Edward Taylor.

The conversational narrative style of Michael Fenton Stevens, as the club's oldest member, who is awoken from a peaceful snooze, draws the audience inexorably into a galaxy of emotions and ambitions. Hilarious adaptation of a huge sofa (which even simulates a boat), and clever use of assorted pot plants, a ceiling light, balustrades and bar, all adds to the fun. A crowning glory is the arrival, outside the clubhouse, of a period MG. An increasingly frenetic pace ensures great entertainment.

Fitt, the long-suffering bar steward and pianist, who is happy to don a fez when required, is played by Tim Frances. Jack, the newest member, is played by Adam Jackson-Smith; Rob Witcomb is Turnbull, and David Shelley is Asser. The delightful ladies, with a flair for comedy, are Lily, played by Jenna Boyd and Gloria (Tiffany Graves).

Brilliant effects include a thunderstorm and resounding arcs of golf balls over the auditorium.

There is endless speculation about romantic possibilities, and the elusive, apparently desirable, Daphne Cartwright, who never actually shows up! Clearly, golf reigns supreme. How could anyone prefer croquet?

Love On The Links runs until June 23.

Stella Taylor