The Ashton fund-raiser, who has already generated more than £5,500 for Children in Need, believes this year's production is the best yet.

A Little Bit of Magic, which will play at the Stubshaw Cross Club on November 27 and St Thomas's Church Hall on November 29, is based on the classic fairy tale Cinderella.

But there are plenty of fun new characters entering stage left and stage right from the 11-strong, eight years old to teenage cast, who are aiming to help bring about an early dose of much needed Christmas spirit Wigan.

Co-writer, with pal Andrew Murray, 14-year-old Jilly, who is also producer/director, has borrowed costumes and props from various sources including her aunty's theatre school and The Citadel in St Helens.
Others have been made or adapted by mums and dads.

The Byrchall High pupil, of Windsor Road, Ashton, has already raise over £550 this year alone for the appeal.
She hopes after the shows have been completed this will have crashed through the £1,000 barrier.

Tickets, which include free raffle tickets for various prizes donated by Ashton businesses, are £3 and each of the one and a half hour long shows starts at 7pm.
Refreshments will be available.