AN arts centre in Worcestershire is planning a host of activities to keep children entertained this February half-term - including

theatre and music.

Charlotte Saunders, spokeswoman for Number 8 Community Arts Centre, in the High Street, Pershore, said: "Our programme is packed with activities for the children.

"There is plenty to do whether you want to make something, get up and move about or enjoy a wonderful piece of theatre."

On Tuesday, February 15, children can join professional artist Rachel Higgins for a workshop making a flying bird using coloured wire, feathers and tissue paper to create moving wings.

Children aged five to seven can join the workshop at 10am to noon, with it costing £5, and eight to 12 year olds can attend at 1.30pm to 4pm, with entry priced at £6.

On Wednesday, February 16, between 10.30am and noon, three to five year olds can take part in a puppet workshop, making their own characters come to life.

"Using well-known children's stories as a starting point, children will make and create their own piece of theatre ready to perform at the end of the workshop," said Ms Saunders.

Then at 1pm, six to eight year olds can burn off their half-term holiday energy with some South African dancing, and wearing wellington boots is essential.

Different

Thursday, February 17, is the highlight of the week when Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company and Moving Hands Theatre present The Ugly Eagle, devised by the Moving Hands Theatre Company.

Miss Saunders explained the story: "Larry the duck is different from all the other ducks.

"None of the ducks in the park want to play with him and he isn't even allowed on the swimming team.

"Then one day, whilst Larry is playing on his own, a beautiful African eagle arrives.

"The eagle cheers Larry up by telling him his special story about how he is different too."

She said the family show is for children aged three and over and features a South African dancer, theatre, animation and puppetry, all set in a bright playground.

All tickets cost £6.50

Friday, February 18, will see a workshop for those aged over 13 - called Making Music - and will include a vocal coach and songwriter working with youngsters to compose their own song, which they can take home with them on their very own CD.

For more information log onto www.number8.org.