A PAIR of youngsters have swapped their school uniforms to for a starring role under the spotlight.

Little Lever School pupils Matthew Howell and Lucy Doyle Ryder have been wowing audiences in Bolton as they take to the stage in the Octagon Theatre's latest show.

The duo have won lead roles in the production of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird which is running until October 15.

For both Lucy, aged 12, and Matthew, aged 14, this is the first time either of them have starred in a major production after auditioning for the parts along with around 50 other young hopefuls back in July.

Lucy, from Radcliffe, takes on the role of one of the story's central characters - Scout Finch - and was put forward for the role by her drama teacher Brad Tuff.

Dad Andrew Ryder, aged 39, said: "They understood she had never done it before but she was confident in the audition and could manage it.

"She loves it, she is buzzing every time I pick her up after a show. She is bouncing all over the place and happy and confident.

"The whole family is very proud. It's hard to put into words about how it feels knowing your little daughter is going up and doing all this in front of people, it's amazing!"

Matthew, from Little Lever, has been in shows at Farnworth Little Theatre and Bolton's CATS Youth Theatre and takes on the part of Scout's brother Jem.

Mum Joanne Howells, aged 46, was full of praise for her son and his co-stars.

She said: "He did fantastic, they all did fantastic, it is an amazing production.

"He was absolutely over the moon when he heard he got the part. He was screaming and running around the house.

"They rehearsed over the summer holiday, it's quite intense, and quite a deep story. It's a great opportunity for them and at such a young age as well!

"He's totally embraced the experience, loves the part and working with the professionals. We are very proud of him."

The school and Mr Tuff were also full of praise for the pupils, with a team of staff already booked up tickets for the show to go along and show their support.

Mr Tuff added: "They have both grown in confidence, especially Matthew, it is great to see.

"The whole school is proud of them, they are giving it everything they've got!"