A GROUP of youngsters have taken to their stage with their annual school performances.

Children at Raventhorpe Preparatory School, in Darlington, performed their annual plays last week.

Form five staged the Clown Who Couldn't Smile, while form six performed The Pied Piper of Hamelin.

Headteacher Doreen Procter said: "Despite such a short term the children rose to the challenge of learning large parts well.

"The costumes were mainly made by the parents, who all thoroughly enjoyed the performances.

"Drama teacher Mavis Hudson worked with the children all term to reach a high standard for the final performances."