YOUNG Ben Fourie is celebrating his first major theatre role - and rave reviews from his director.

The seven-year-old landed the lead in Accrington Theatre Group's production of Oliver.

And the talented youngster, who lives in Ribblesdale Avenue, Wilpshire, won the part despite the director admitting that he was initially looking for someone much older.

Ben, a pupil at Salesbury School, has to learn all his lines as well as six songs and dance routines for the show. A six-night run began last night.

Director Howard Raw said: "Ben is fantastic, he obviously loves the part and the stage in general. He has plenty of energy and brings a natural mischievousness to the part. Ben has a lot of talent and I'm sure it's going to be a great performance.

"When we were casting the part I was looking for someone a bit older but when I saw Ben I knew he could take up the role.

"He is a cracking actor and I have been very impressed with his performances."

Ben is joined in the play by his brother Joseph, 10, and father Paul, 37.

He said: "The songs and dance routines are great because lots of people already know the tunes. I couldn't wait to get on stage."

It is the first major role for Ben, who has previously appeared in Jack and the Beanstalk with the Gladys Sutcliffe Theatre School, Clitheroe.

The production is one of largest attempted in recent years by Accrington Theatre Group.

It features well over 100 members of the cast, crew and musicians, hundreds of costumes and props and large scene changes.

Joining Ben in the production are David Norris, who plays Fagin, and George Bowden, who takes on the role of the Artful Dodger.

Oliver runs until Saturday at Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre. Booking is available from Accrington Town Hall, 01254 380293.