As Chirk Pantoholics get set for their 25th anniversary, it's time to say goodbye to two of the groups' longest serving members.

Wilf and Pat Owens, who have been involved with the Pantoholics since its beginning, have decided that it is time to pass the baton on to the younger generation.

Pat, who is chairman of the group, initially joined the Pantoholics to make tea and coffee, as a way of socialising after she sadly lost her brother.

Little did she know, a year later she would play the role of the ugly step-sister in Cinderella in 1994, marking the start of a long career of performing.

"I have absolutely loved being part of the Pantoholics," said Pat, 77.

"But Wilf is 80 now and I think it's time that we hung up our boots and let someone younger take over.

"I will miss it dreadfully, but we will be there every year to cheer the cast on."

Over the years, the pair have been involved with productions of Puss in Boots, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Red Riding Hooding, to name a few.

Wilf has made his name as the stage manager and scenery builder throughout the 25 years of the Pantoholics.

Pat has taken on many leading roles, including Sargeant Ping the Policeman in Aladdin in 1996 and Fairy Marigold in the 2000 production of Sleeping Beauty, until more recently when she has lent her voice to the chorus line.

The first pantomime was presented in the Ceiriog Junior School Hall, and after weeks of rehearsals and despite heavy snowfall, the hall was packed with 250 people.

Since then, the Pantoholics have gone from strength to strength, now performing in Chirk Parish Hall to packed audiences each year.

"I'm sure the Pantoholics will carry on for years," continued Pat.

"It's such a friendly group of people, with a vast range of ages in the cast. We've seen generations of families here at the Pantoholics and we've watched people grow up over the years, and go off to university.

"We have mums and nans, and even our granddaughter is part of the group."

Pat and Wilf's last Pantoholics production of Cinderella takes place from tonight, Tuesday, until Saturday, February 17.

"We're hoping this year will be better than ever," said Pat.