A DRAMA group is celebrating its golden jubilee with an original production called Rubicon Crossing.

Saltburn '53 Drama Group has delighted audiences during its many years of presenting amateur theatre in the town, bringing classic plays to the stage.

The group, which now has a cast of 25, has performed at many venues in the town, some of which are no longer standing.

For the past 35 years, Saltburn Theatre, the former Methodist church, has been the base for the cast and production team.

The theatre is in desperate need of repair, so proceeds from Rubicon Crossing will be handed over to the Saltburn Community and Arts Building and Restoration Fund.

Rubicon Crossing, written and directed by local man Philip Thomson, is the sequel to Atlantic Crossing and Channel Crossing.

Set in Rome in 1949, the production is about the threat to the art treasures of Italy from the mafia, Italian Communists, American gold diggers and the Italian government.

Performances, which have been supported by Saltburn, Marske and New Marske parish council, will be staged tonight, tomorrow and Saturday at 7.30pm.

The door and theatre bar open at 7pm.

Tickets cost £5 (concessions £4).