THRILLS and laughter is promised by the Rayleigh Operatic and Dramatic Society, aka RODS, who are to put on two amateur productions of Mantrap and Whodidit? in one night, across three dates.

Mantrap is a thriller by Paul Reakes while Whodidit? is a comedy by Neil Harrison.

Both are being presented by a "special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd".

Karen Barton, the publicity officer for RODS, explained: "Here at RODS, we are having fun with our next production, doing two one-act plays.

"In Mantrap, the evening begins when a young girl, Josie, knocks upon the door of Trevor one evening in much distress. After listening to her tale Trevor agrees to let her in for her own safety, but as the evening develops events take a twist for the worse and a terrible incident occurs.

"Our second offering - Whodidit? - is a hilarious comedy spoof set in a county house back in time. When the Darlings’ well-to-do home receives the arrival of a stranger, a chain of murderous events begins, and one by one family and servants begin to meet their end."

She added: "Unfortunately these productions are not suitable for children."

Performances take place on Thursday May 12 to Saturday May 14, at The Mill Arts and Events Centre, Rayleigh, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from the box office on 01268 771751 and 07580 532068 at £10.

Karen added: "We are a friendly group and are always pleased to welcome new members so if anyone fancies becoming part of RODS and would like to know more, they should please visit our website at rods.org.uk."