BUDDING performers from Bolton will be taking to the stage to highlight crime-related issues.

Pupils from Thornleigh Salesian College will be performing in the finals of the Greater Manchester Police's On the Beat competition tonight.

Young people aged between 10 and 18 from across Greater Manchester will be taking part in the contest.

The curtain will go up at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall at 7pm with teams performing pieces of music, dance or drama which tackle crime-related issues.

The theme for this year's show is "equality through the spirit of friendship".

On the Beat is part of GMP's Youth Matters programme which aims to involve young people in pro-active community projects by looking at ways of dealing with crime and anti-social behaviour as well as encouraging better citizenship.

The winning team will receive a trophy and a cheque for £1,000. Tickets cost £3 and are available from the Bridgewater Hall Box Office on 0161 907 9000.

Pupils step out

to beat the rest