Borough students have been praised after performing to packed out audiences.

Bury College performing arts students showcased their pantomime adaptation of The Nutcracker at Bury schools before taking to the stage at the Jim Cartwright Theatre in Chorley.

The shows at the theatre took place on December 6 and 13.

Former Phillips High School pupil Madeleine Fisher, who performed in the show, said: “I have loved having the opportunity to entertain a younger audience, interacting with them and making them laugh.

“Throughout the whole process, I have also learned a lot and improved my characterisation skills.”

Audience members shared the Christmas joy and praised students.

Mathew Britten, an English teacher at The Elton High School, said: "We were delighted that we were able to attend the Bury College pantomime with our Year 7s.

“Bury College performing arts students expertly brought to life the fairy tale world for our students, who have been studying performance skills in oracy, English, and drama lessons.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to see role models of those skills, and the future pathways open to them.

“Clara's positive catchphrase 'there's always time for kindness' and her commitment to helping others resonated with our own school values of Ambition, Resilience and Kindness."

Unsworth Primary School and The Derby High School also reserved praise for the performance and the college for being "so welcoming".

Andy Tomlinson, head of school of performance at the college, added: “The panto process and performance opportunities is a great learning experience for our performers as they have to learn new skills and take part in a two-week ‘professional’ engagement to children and evening family audiences.

“The energy and excitement of the local children is always infectious. Panto is a great experience for all the children, big and small.”