REDDITCH youngsters are in for a fun-packed half term at the Palace Theatre next week.

A sensational story of swordfighting, heroism and friendship on the high seas takes place on Tuesday, with a tribute concert to well-known chart toppers on Wednesday.

Spud the Pirate and the Pot of Gold features shy hero Spud, a boy unable to talk, who sets off on a quest for treasure and becomes a brave pirate.

While his friend Bruno Bear struggles to overcome his seasickness, cowardly Spud must save a beautiful mermaid from the evil clutches of bad pirate Black Jack.

The show, for three to eight year olds, also features Spud's puppet friends Pup the mischievous puppy, Algae the octopus and Sparky the electric eel, who help him on his seaside adventure.

Spud's adventures will be followed by a show which will have youngsters dancing in the aisles.

The two-hour concert is a tribute to teen idol Britney Spears and superstars Westlife and Boyzone.

Chart-toppers Baby One More Time, Sometimes, Crazy and I Was Born To Make You Happy will be on the bill along with the latest and greatest boy band numbers from the Irish singing sensations.

Both Spud the Pirate and the Pot of Gold and Britney and Boyslife begin at 2pm.

Tickets for Spud cost £6.50 or £6 (with Reddicard) and £5 or £15 for a family ticket for Britney and Boyslife from the box office on 65203.