Thelma's worst experience on stage was an unwilling appearance in "The Frogs" by Aristophanes at Grammar School at the age of eleven: having been cast as a frog, not because of any acting talent but because she was one of the six smallest girls in 1A. She was a founder member of Whickham Theatre Club before joining the Progressive Players about 15 years ago. If Thelma were a footballer she would be perhaps described as a "Utility Player", having acted, directed, prompted, "propsed", sold ice cream, made coffee and been a member of various Committees, particularly "Reading Committee". Her favourite role has been Mother in "The Poker Session". At an age when anyone with sense has retired, Thelma works at Gateshead College training adults in Basic Literary and Numeracy