PUPILS at a Bolton school took to the stage in the Greater Manchester Police 'On the Beat' competition.

Youngsters aged 11 to 16 from Canon Slade competed against 10 other schools at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall.

They took part in a variety of crime-related performances on the theme: "Our community, our future, our responsibility."

Sgt Trevor Pile, said: "Many young people complain they have nothing to do with their spare time and nowhere to go.

"Unfortunately a small minority turn to crime. Our aim is to give them some fun and excitement by channelling their youthful energies into positive activities."

'On the Beat' is part of GMP's Youth Matters programme. Canon Slade school won the Best Team Award while Wigan's Lowton Community High School walked off with the overall top prize.