A NEW youth theatre group will be launched in Northwich in September.

The group will be open to anyone aged between 11 and 18 who wants to develop their drama skills, build confidence and make new friends.

It will start at Mid Cheshire College's Hartford campus on September 9.

The group is being started by arts organisation Minerva Arts who already run two groups in Chester.

Minerva Youth Theatre groups work towards two public performances a year and offer an Arts Award, a nationally recognised qualification in the arts.

Artistic Director Steph Brocken said: "After the success of our Chester groups, we are really excited to be opening a new group in Northwich and engaging more young people in the arts."

The first session, from 7pm to 9pm on September 9, is a free taster session.

For more information visit minervaarts.com.