ONE hundred youngsters have invaded Bolton’s biggest stage this week as they prepare to bring a classic to life.

Children and young people aged from just eight to 21 will be starring in The Railway Children when opens the Octagon Theatre’s 50th anniversary season next week.

Everyone of them will play a part in the show while 21 have been picked out to bring to life author E. Nesbit’s beloved characters Bobby, Peter, and Phyllis.

Among them are 14-year-old Vicky Harrison from Horwich, 11-year-old Adam Crompton from Sharples, and eight-year-old Astrid King from Farnworth who have been teamed up to play the siblings.

Vicky, who plays Bobby, aka Roberta, said: “It’s such a well known story so it’s really good to be acting in it.

“It’s nice to see how they have adapted it. There are so many roles for so many people.

“I am really enjoying playing Roberta. I feel really connected to her, I think anyone can in a way. Everyone likes the parts they have got.”

Astrid, who plays the youngest sibling Phyllis added: “I think my character is wonderful, she is in most of the acts and is very funny as well!

“Everyone is really excited about the show.”

The story of follows the siblings as their lives are turned upside down when their father leaves the family home with no explanation. Moving to a cottage in the country, they soon discover new friendships and become fascinated by the nearby railway.

In seven different teams of three the youngsters will star each night, taking turns to play the siblings as time passes in the play.

The rest of the cast will play anything from villagers, musicians, singers to sheep and have also supported the work of the crew backstage and created their own props.

Adam, who plays Peter, added: “It’s nice to have so many young people working together on one show!”

The Railway children will run for four shows from August 17 to 19.