AN imaginative play with a cast of frogs, moles and other colourful characters is touring Weardale and Teesdale.

Fresh from winning the Barclays Award for the Best Show for Children in 2000, Cleveland Theatre Company is touring with one of their most adventurous productions. The Lost Child follows a father and his daughter on a journey of self discovery.

The play, written by Mike Kenny, is suitable for children under nine, but the story, told in folk tale style, has universal appeal with its approach to tackling contemporary moral issues.

The show will be performed at Wearhead School, Weardale, next Saturday, and at Bowes Gilmanby Village Hall, Barnard Castle, on January 20.

Artist director Paul Harmen said: "This is a delightful piece of work that explores the relationship between parents and their children - a strong alternative to the traditional Christmas productions at this time of year."

For details of the shows, call North Pennine Highlights on (01768) 353954