STUDENTS at Polam Hall School are bringing a classic 1980s comedy back to life in a stage show starting tonight.

The Little Shop of Horrors show starts at 7.30pm in the Darlington school's Liddiard Hall, with performances at the same time tomorrow and Saturday night.

It tells the tale of Seymour, a lonely florist who finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant talking plant he discovers during a solar eclipse.

Elizabeth Sleightholme, head of music at the school, said: "It's quite a bizarre storyline, but it's been fun and the girls have loved doing it."

Youngsters have been in rehearsals since the beginning of term in January and are looking forward to the performances.

Caroline Little, 15, who plays Seymour, said: "It's been really busy but we've had great fun and it's taken our minds off worrying about exams."

Harriet Bradshaw, 14, who plays Seymour's shop assistant Audrey, said: "We're excited and nervous both at the same time."

Little Shop of Horrors is the first show to be produced at the school by the new head of drama, Jo Larque, who said she hopes it will be the first of many.

The backing music will be provided by a band made up of Polam Hall's music teachers, and refreshments will be served by the school's soul band to raise money towards buying a new drum kit.

Tickets for the shows are available from the reception at Polam Hall School, in Grange Road, in Darlington,

They are priced at £6 for adults and £4 for children.