A GROUP of budding actors are rehearsing for a Remembrance Day themed play ahead of their performance at the Royal Wootton Bassett Arts Festival.

Children aged between seven and nine from in and around Malborough will perform a play that celebrates the significance of poppies in ceremonies tkaing place this weekend to remember the fallen.

Each child is taking on the role of a different poppy getting ready to be used for a wreath.

The children are pupils of the Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama and have been busy rehearsing for the last few weeks every Saturday morning.

Drama teacher Jackie Lawrence said: “They are really excited to perform.

“The festival is something they do every year so we try to pick something appropriate for this time of year.

"The play really interested them because there are many different types of characters to play and they have learned a lot about the service of remembrance.

"They are also looking forward to performing for the Marlborough Christmas lights switch on."

The Royal Wootton Bassett Arts Festival, where they will perform their play, is taking place at Royal Wootton Bassett Academy in Lime Kiln, Royal Wootton Bassett on November 18.

Ms Lawrence has been providing drama lessons for children as part of the weekly stage school held at Marlborough St Mary's primary school since September 2016.