IT was 1958 when eight-year-old cub scout Les Rowe first took to the stage in the cast of the annual St Helens Scout and Guide Gang Show...and it’s fair to say he caught the acting bug that day.

That’s because 60 years on he has appeared in every single performance since. And it’s the fun and laughter that has kept him coming back.

Les has played many parts and worn dozens of different costumes over the last six decades. James Bond, sumo wrestlers and ballet dancers are just some of the characters he has took on. As well as appearing in the Gang Show 2018, Les is currently a Deputy District Commissioner and was recently awarded one of Scouting’s highest awards, the Silver Acorn, for his long and distinguished service.

The 68-year-old said: “Appearing in the Gang Show has been a lot of fun and laughter. Dressing up in silly costumes and the great family feeling of being in the cast creates a sense of camaraderie that goes on both back stage and on. Remembering my lines is sometimes a problem, so I write them on the props, but then my fellow cast members swap them without me knowing. Here’s to next 60 years.”

At the end of this year’s show, he was presented with a photo frame containing pictures from his last 60 years in the Gang Show. He also had a photo taken with all the current cast.