A DAIRY farmer who diddles with ditties while mucking out the animals is bringing his new-look musical to King George's Hall.

Raymond Smith, from Heapey, near Chorley, composed Samuel - the story from the Old Testament - more than eight years ago but has adapted the show especially for children.

Two hundred and fifty young singers will take to the Blackburn stage tomorrow.

Raymond is also musical director with the Hillside Singers, Brinscall, who were the first to perform the musical.

"Over the years I have built up a bag of tunes," Raymond said. "Most come to me while I'm out on the farm and then I rush back to the house and write them down. "We've altered some of the harmonies, taken out a few songs and added more dialogue for the children.

"It's a pastiche musical with a bit of everything, pop, Caribbean, Gilbert and Sullivan."

He added: "My ambition is to get it published."

Samuel was performed by children in April at the Guild Hall, Preston, where more than £9,000 was raised for NCH Action for Children.

All the proceeds from the Blackburn concert will go to the same cause.

Raymond is hoping to start work soon on a new project about the story of missionary Gladys Aylward, working alongside Jan Krampf, the lyricist who wrote the words for Samuel.

Tickets for the show are available from the box office on 01254 582582 and priced at adults £5, £3 children.

Cassettes and CDs of the musical can be bought from Raymond on 01257 277633.

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