FOR me, The Vicar of Dibley broke the mould when it comes to so-called gentle comedy.

The characters felt very real and the script could be a little bit naughty at times, while never offending anybody.

Geraldine Granger was the central character, a fun and feisty cleric played to perfection by Dawn French. Altrincham Garrick is about to perform the stage version of the much-loved sitcom, with Victoria Johnsonn as the lovable Geraldine.

Victoria insists she won’t be trying to take off French. But her performance won’t be too different from the original.

She said: “It’s a bit scary and there’s quite a lot of pressure because everybody knows what they’re expecting. But we’re having a really good time rehearsing it.”

Victoria said the stage play is a selection of snippets from the long running TV programme, starting with Geraldine’s arrival in the village and the ensuing shock expressed by the male dominated parish council. The picture postcardm village has never had a lady vicar, you see.

She said: “It’s a brilliantly funny role and I tend to do comedy parts anyway and it’s just perfect for me. There are some brilliant lines. I also like it because it’s quite an ensemble piece and everybody’s got a good part.”

* Altrincham Garrick presents The Vicar of Dibley from December 2-7 at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or Altrincham Tourist Information Centre, Stamford New Road, Altrincham. A two ticket for the price of one policy operates on Monday night.