YOUNGSTERS from Redcar and Cleveland took centre stage at the Millennium Dome with a performance based on myths and legends from the area.

The group of more than 60 young people, aged two to 17, have been rehearsing since the beginning of the summer in preparation for their big day at Greenwich.

The youngsters were performing as part of McDonald's Our Town Story, which gives young people from all over the country the opportunity to show off their area.

Last week, it was the turn of Darlington and Middlesbrough.

The performance centres on witch Peg Powler, who captures innocent children playing on the River Tees with her army.

It was a high-energy dance and gymnastics performance by children from Bydales, Hummersea, Normanby, Northgate and St Gabriel's Schools, as well as youth clubs from the borough, accompanied by musicians from Tees Valley music service.

Redcar MP Mo Mowlam said she was extremely impressed with the talent from Redcar.

"I thought it was fantastic - it was better than I have paid for in the theatre," she said.

The performers certainly enjoyed themselves as well. One youngster from Normanby Primary School said: "It was scary at first but it was really fun."

Charlotte Buchannan, 15, from West Redcar School, took the leading role as Peg Powler, putting her dance and gymnastics skills to use.

She said: "I'm used to performing and dancing in competitions, but it is the first time I have done anything like this.

"I was nervous at first but then I enjoyed it."