THE cast of a forthcoming production of Half a Sixpence earned a pretty penny after going bag packing on Saturday to raise funds.

Members of Darlington Operatic Youth Theatre, an offshoot of the town's Amatuer Operatic Society, raised £545 at Morrisons store, in North Road.

Theatre group administrator Penny Hyslop said: "It was a fantastic amount. Everyone was so generous. I hope they all come along to see the show too."

Forty members of the group have been rehearsing since September to stage Half a Sixpence, based on HG Wells' story Kipps, about a draper's shop assistant plunged into high society after being left a fortune.

Carmel College sixth-former Oliver James, 18, plays Arthur Kipps, in the role made famous by Tommy Steele in the 1960s.

Songs include Money To Burn, If The Rain's Got To Fall, The Party's On The House and Flash, Bang Wallop!

Produced by David Coates with musical direction by Dan Hands and choreography by Cathy Tribble, the show runs at the Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, from Wednesday to Saturday, March 12 to 15, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £8, and £6 concessions. They are available by contacting (01325) 483721, or (01325) 486555.