ST HELENS came to the Dome on Monday and boy did our youngsters do their home town proud when they presented 'Our Town Story'.

The musical, which starred 65 children from schools throughout the borough, tells of local girl Jane and her pet sheep Bernard who travel to Wembley to support their Rugby League team -- Saints.

During her journey Jane discovers the cultural differences between the North West and South East and sets out to change the image of St Helens in the eyes of Londoners. This involves showing them the proud hertitage of the town including coal mining and glass manufacture.

And among the civic dignitries in the audience enjoying St Helens Day at the Dome who had travelled to support the enthusiastic youngsters was Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Pat Robinson, who said: "All the youngsters performed really well and are a credit to the youth of St Helens and it was a real team effort by everybody."

Dave Watts, MP for St. Helens North, added: "I'm sure that this is the best show that has been staged in the McDonald's 'Our Town Story' project. We are very proud of the whole cast and would like to say a big congratulations to everyone who took part."

Artistic director, Morag Murchison enthused: "We took a lot of ideas from the children and also did a lot of information gathering before deciding on our final production. We have had a great team here and are hoping to perform the play again in St Helens in the near future and that a St Helens Youth Theatre will come from this."

Here is what some of the youngsters who appeared in the show had to say:

Jennifer Lonsdale (11) of St Helens and Willow Tree CP School, said: "I really enjoyed it and I thought the Dome was really interesting." While Kelly Birchdale (11) of Rainford and Corpus Christi CP enthused: "I think it's a really lively place and I feel so lucky to have been chosen."

Lucy Hornshaw (11) of St Helens and St Julie's CP, said: "I think that it has been really good here and I'm looking forward to seeing the main show."

Mark Harrison (11) of Clock Face and Willow Tree CP, enthused: "I feel very lucky to be here and very excited to be in this show."

Emma Rigby (10) of Eccleston and St Julie's CP, said: "I was thrilled when I was chosen and I think the Dome is quite good."