DURHAM University student volunteers are supporting a drama club at a local community centre to prepare a special Christmas performance.

Around 15 students are lending their experience of writing, acting, directing and other theatrical roles to the young people of the Pelaw Performers drama club, which meets at the Pelaw View Centre, on Sherburn Road Estate, Durham.

They are helping the young people, aged five to 12, to prepare for a Christmas show, titled Pelaw Does Christmas, to be staged at the Centre on Monday, December 10, at 6.30pm.

The partnership was developed by Rosie Dart, an English literature undergraduate at the College of St Hild and St Bede, who is currently President of Hild Bede Theatre.

She said: “I have always enjoyed working with children and seeing them come out of their shell through drama. Drama is a great way to build confidence and skills.

“This is a great way for students to connect with local communities and spend time together in a positive activity.”

Karen Fearon, who helps lead Pelaw Performers, said: “We’re working with children aged five to 12 who have low self-confidence or self-esteem and make them feel important, and that their ideas are valued.

“We’ve noticed a huge difference in the children’s confidence.

“The students have been a breath of fresh air. They are fantastic and very encouraging. The children have taken a real shine to the students.”

Pelaw Performers is open to new members and is free to attend. For more information email Karen Fearon on: karen0602@yahoo.co.uk.

Pelaw Does Christmas is free to attend. All are welcome.