YOUNGSTERS in a city amateur dramatic society have come to the aid of vulnerable, disabled and disadvantaged children.

Members of Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's Youth Section have decided to adopt the local branch of Barnardo's as their charity for this year.

Barnardo's is Britain's largest children's charity, working directly with more than 50,000 children, young people and their families in 300 projects nationwide.

"Every year, WODYS choose a charity to support, raising money with raffles at their annual show," said WODYS' director and producer David Humphries.

"This summer - from Tuesday, July 30, to Saturday, August 3 - we are staging Annie at Worcester's Swan Theatre, so it seemed appropriate to go for a group which helps to transform children's lives the same as Daddy Warbucks transforms Annie's life in the musical.

"People still associate Barnardo's with orphanages and young Annie is, of course, an orphan in the musical. But Barnardo's now does so many things to help youngsters and their families overcome severe disadvantages and we are keen to help the Barnardo's Worcestershire short Breaks Project."

The project offers help for families with disabled children by providing carers to look after the youngsters during the day, evening, overnight, or perhaps for a weekend so that the parents can enjoy a break.

"Over the years, WODYS has given around £7,000 to various orgnaisations and we are hoping to raise a good sum for Barnardo's because Annie looks like being a sell-out as the tickets are already going very well," said Mr Humphries.

Tickets for the show are on sale at the Swan Theatre box office on 01905 27322.