YOUNGSTERS showed off their acting skills to win parts in a pantomime written by a former Dr Who.

Auditions for the show by Colin Baker, on the theme of Robin Hood Meets Local Legends, were held at Chester-le-Street's Newker Primary School on Saturday.

The performance, involving youngsters aged from eight to 18, will mark the end of Celebrate, a day of activities in Chester-le-Street town centre, on July 12.

It follows the success of a similar event last year, which attracted hundreds of people.

Mr Baker was also involved in the previous production, which was staged at Lumley Castle.

Peter Darrant, marketing manager at the castle, which will again host the performance, said: "After the success of Celebrate in 2002, we decided to host it again.

"The hundreds of local children who got involved got so much out of it last year, and we hope this year it will be even bigger."

The event is being organised by Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street District Council and the Traders Association, and anyone who wishes to sponsor it is asked to contact Mr Darrant on 0191-389 1111.