BURNLEY Youth Theatre has reported a higher than ever response to its new autumn programme of workshops -- but there are still just a few places left for this term, in Burnley, Earby and Oswaltwistle.

Young people aged from five to 25 years old are invited to grab the last few slots on workshops that help different age groups explore performance skills, techniques and styles through games, improvisation and interaction with professional drama readers.

Artistic director Jacky Riddell explained: "More and more young people from throughout East Lancashire are using the performance arts to gain new skills, make friends and in some cases make sense of the world around them.

"We have filled some sessions, but there are just a few places left - including some at our workshops at the New Road Community Centre, Earby, and Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre."

Jacky added: "Building work on our new theatre in Burnley starts in November, and it is not a day too soon. Demand for our activities is growing."

For details of the Burnley Youth Theatre workshops which still have spaces left, and to register on all sessions, please ring (01282) 427767.