CHRISTMAS will be a month late for members of Redditch's Youth Theatre Group.

For a booking mix-up meant performances of their musical The Night Before Christmas had to be delayed from last month.

But the show must go on, and the group now hopes to stage the show on January 24 at the Palace Theatre.

Mr Geoff Evans, adult founder of the group, said the youth actors were disappointed at the delay - but relieved at having the extra rehearsal time.

The youths, ranging from eight to 17 years old, wrote, directed, acted and produced the play, built the scenery and designed the costumes.

"They put so much into it," said Mr Evans, "but they have had a lot from it in excitement."