A BUNCH of colourful of puppets, which have been tackling topical issues in town schools, has scooped an award.

The All Sorts puppet group - run by the NewSong Community Church in Sidemoor, came third in the recent European Puppet Ministry Festival held in Reading.

The three-day long event was attended by more than 600 Christian puppeteers, who not only performed to each other but also took part in a range of training workshops.

In the last few months the All Sorts have performed in a number of school assemblies tackling topical issues such as drugs and bullying through lively songs and sketches.

For further information, or to book the puppet group call Maggie Bishton at the Broad Street church on 01527 574618.