YOUNG actors, musicians, stage hands and technicians are working round the clock to mount their annual theatrical production.

Durham Youth Musical Theatre (DYMT), featuring an 80-strong crew and cast from round the county, is busy preparing for its latest summer holiday show, Lionel Bart's musical Oliver!

Rehearsing daily they have a week before opening night, at Durham Johnston Upper School, at Crossgate Moor, Durham.

The group, all aged under 25, is totally self-funding and each show must pay for itself from the takings of the previous production.

Only the determination of former DYMT performer, David Galloway, from Spennymoor, ensured this year's show got off the ground.

Taking the role of producer/ director, 19-year-old David, who has just completed his first year at the University of Essex's E15 drama school in London, has devoted much of his summer holiday to make certain that the show goes ahead this year.

The title role will be played by 13-year-old Chris Coxon, from Shotley Bridge, leading a 70-strong cast and chorus, ranging in age from eight to 21.

Curtain goes up on first night, next Thursday, at 7.30pm, at the start of a three-night run.

Tickets, costing £4 and £3 for concessions, can be booked by ringing (01388) 815556, but places should be available on the door, each night.