To celebrate 156 years of education at Jeffreyston VC School, the pupils and teachers have recently staged Lionel Bart's famous musical 'Oliver!'. The children have worked extremely hard at learning their lines and songs, and putting it all together to produce an entertaining performance.

All 78 pupils, from four-year-olds to 11-year-olds, had an important part to play. They looked fantastic and authentic in their costumes and make-up, and this was complemented by effective scenery and lighting.

The children were in fine voice as they enthusiastically sang the popular songs, including 'Food Glorious Food', 'Consider Yourself', 'I'd do Anything' and 'Om pa pa'.

Ten-year-old James Lewis was an obvious choice for Oliver with his angelic face and beautiful singing voice - in the famous song 'Where is Love', many mothers were blinking to keep back the tears.

Polly James's bubbly personality brought her character, the Artful Dodger, to life.

In fact, all of the characters were faultless in their delivery and what's more, they did it with enjoyment and verve. Their voices were projected well right to the back of the hall.

The performance, which was produced by Mrs. Sue Hughes, was accompanied by Mrs. Rachel Grieve, who was also the musical director.

Obviously a production like this could never happen without the unsung people behind the scenes who are just as important as the characters on stage. So a big thank you is extended to all who helped to make this production successful and enjoyable.