YOUNG comic stars took to the school stage, leaving packed audiences in stitches with their alternative brands of humour.

The curtain rose on Shorts, Trousers and Officiality, this year's junior play at Barnard Castle School.

This year the two-night show took the form of nine comedy sketches performed by a cast of 20 11 to 14-year-olds taking on a variety of roles from grumpy old men to fish.

Teacher Erin Thomas said: "We have had a lot of fun trying to perfect the show.

"Although we did have trouble trying to find a cast that could commit to it as there are so many new activities being run at school this year.

"Extra curricular activities are really important to children's development.

"If they can have fun together creatively it really stimulates their interest in academic studies and helps classmates bond as well."