THEATRICAL youngsters from Shildon are celebrating after bagging a grant to help them take to the stage this summer.

The Tearaways Youth Theatre Group has been awarded £500 from the Co-op Community Fund for a show later this year.

The group introduces children and teenagers to theatre, including singing, dancing and acting, and encourages them to produce and perform their productions.

The grant will help pay for costumes, props and publicity for The Tearaways' next and biggest production, The Disney Show, in October.

Director Derrick Robinson said: "Giving these young people the chance to take part in theatre helps them to develop their skills and increases their confidence and creativity.