A Workington youth theatre group is preparing to perform its last show under the direction of its founder member.

The Theatre Royal Second Star Youth Theatre will perform The Wind In The Willows on Saturday and Sunday.

And it will be Millie Hardy-Sims's last show with the company.

Millie set up the group three years ago and now she is stepping down from the role of director to study drama at the University of Lincoln.

Millie said: "I am so privileged to have been approached back in April 2014 to revive the Theatre Royal's youth theatre. We have been graced with great shows, talented young actors and an amazingly supportive audience.

"Thinking back on The Lost Boy in October 2014, with only 11 actors and 30 members of audience, to The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz in April 2017, with 19 members of cast and a sold out show, I feel so proud.

"Over the three years we have staged 11 shows, seen more than 60 young actors pass through the company and have hopefully shown the local area what young actors are capable of.

"I have loved getting to know each and every one of the young actors and love them as my own family. I have seen some of them grow from being unable to speak even to me to now standing up in front of hundreds and acting their hearts out, sometimes even with an accent.

"I have loved seeing my words fly off the page and come to life, along with the vibrant costume and set provided by the talented, supportive crew. It hasn't always been an easy ride, but it has definitely been an enjoyable one."

This weekend, the 18 young actors and six crew, aged between 10 and 21, will stage their own take on the timeless British classic by Kenneth Grahame.

Sophia Alford, 11, will play her first main role as the inquisitive Mole, Kelly Pearce, 17, will play Ratty, the secluded Mr Badger will be impersonated by 19-year-old Connor McClenan and the mischevious Mr Toad by 15-year-old Sophie MacKenzie.

Millie said: "Rehearsals have been going well. The Wind In The Willows isn't as well known as some of our previous shows, so it has taken some of the actors a while to get to grips with not only the story, but their characters and roles within it and the time era in which it is set. Nevertheless they have worked hard to make this show the best one yet - and topping Oz will be a challenge.

"It's a beautiful story with a happy ending, and lots of touching moments in between. It's true to the book, with a lot of laughs and it will be great for all the family."

The youth theatre group already has shows lined-up for last year, including Alices' Adventures in Wonderland in April and A Christmas Carol in December 2018.

Millie said: "I cannot yet say who will be taking over, but I will say that they are every bit as enthusiastic about the youth theatre as I have been and that the productions are in safe hands.

"I am very sad to be leaving the group, as I have very much enjoyed my time with these amazing young people, but it is time for the next chapter of my life.

"I would like to thank everyone for everything you have done for me over the last four years, and I wish all of the Second Stars the best in future."

Shows start at 6:30pm both nights and tickets cost £7, concessions £5. Tickets are available from www.theatre-royal-workington.co.uk, by calling 01900 603161 or on the door.