AN ACCLAIMED anti-drugs play is to be performed by pupils from a Pendle high school at a top level conference in the Barbican Centre, London, next month.

The cast from Edge End High, Nelson, has been invited to perform the drugs awareness production, "Sign of the Times," in front of a selected audience during the National Drugs Education conference on March 12.

The play has previously been performed in Pendle, Rossendale and Lancaster to rave reviews. Edge End students helped bring the play to the stage. Teacher Chris Blacoe said: "The school and the cast have been left in no doubt as to the effectiveness of the play's message and the vibrancy of the performances. Many people have commented on its relevance, appropriacy and the enthusiasm of all the people involved.

"It's a real honour to be invited to such an important event."

The production is part of the Brierfield Arts and Drugs Project, a scheme set up among young people to look at the issue of drug taking in Nelson and Brierfield. It is supported through the Multi-Agency Group Network in Pendle (MAGNET) which includes the probation service and Mid Pennine Arts.

The trip and performance in London will be financed by Lancashire County Council's youth and community service and is being co-ordinated by Brierfield youth and community worker Sarah Hill.

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