A DRAMA group is following up a successful production of the traditional Cinderella story by taking the tale one stage further.

The Acorn Players, from Newton Aycliffe, have announced that their new production is to be called Cinderella's New Year Ball.

The Players' Sue Hindle said: "We are a year on from the original ball and Cinders being found by her Prince.

"They are living happily ever after and are expecting their first baby in the new year.

"To celebrate, they plan a ball and invite all their panto friends, but someone's invitation gets lost and they plan to have revenge.

"It is good family fun in true pantomime style. Something different for Easter."

The Acorn Players are mostly made up of 11 to 18-year-olds and rely on ticket sales to keep the group going.

The new show will be performed at Woodham Community Technology College, Newton Aycliffe, from Thursday, April 18, to Saturday, April 20, at 7.30pm each night.

Tickets are £3 for adults, £2 for concessions (all tickets £2 on Thursday), and are available by telephoning (01325) 311816 or from the Learning Shop, Thames Arcade.