Sixteen young actors have been chosen to be part of a Cinderella pantomime in Didcot this Christmas.

The budding actors were selected following auditions held on September 14 at the Cornerstone Arts Centre, where the performances will also take place.

The auditions were organised by KD Theatre Productions, who are producing the professional pantomime.

A total of 50 young people from across Oxfordshire signed up for the auditions, which were divided into two categories - juniors, aged nine to 11, and seniors, aged 12 to 16.

The young actors will form two groups, named Team Cinders and Team Buttons.

Daniel Bell, producer at KD Theatre Productions, said: "We were blown away by the talent that attended our open audition day.

"A huge thank you and well done to everyone who came.

"Being a part of the pantomime is a fantastic opportunity for young people to appear in a professional production, where they will gain experience and make memories for life."

She added: "This is a unique opportunity for young performers to be part of a professional production, working alongside experienced actors.

"It's an incredible chance for them to develop their skills, gain real stage experience, and contribute to a show that will captivate audiences this Christmas in Didcot."

The 16 successful cast members will meet the professional cast for the first time in December when dress rehearsals begin.

Councillor Georgina Heritage, cabinet member for communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "I was so pleased that we had such a great response to our auditions in September.

"It’s wonderful that so many local young people can have this experience alongside a professional cast on the Cornerstone stage this Christmas.

"I’ll be coming along on the preview night and can’t wait to see the show."

The Cinderella pantomime will be running from Wednesday, December 18, to Tuesday, December 31.

Families eager to see the production can attend the preview evening at 7pm on December 18, where there will be a special discount on tickets.

There will also be a signed and relaxed performance for families on December 21 at 1pm, and a free touch tour on December 28 at 1pm, ahead of the matinee performance at 2.30pm.

The touch tour is designed for those with visual impairments, allowing them to go on stage, meet members of the cast, and understand what the characters look like by feeling their costumes and props.

Anyone interested in this performance is asked to call the box office on 01235 515144 to book their place.