Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society Youth Section is celebrating its 25th anniversary in style next month with up to 20 performers taking a trip down Memory Lane.

At the city's Swan Theatre on Sunday, June 17, former and current members will reprise numbers they have sung in WODYS' musicals down the years. The show will be followed by a party.

Hundreds of youngsters have experienced the fun, friendships, expert tuition and hard work of the weekly rehearsals and annual shows. Some graduated from drama schools for careers in theatre, others have moved on to the senior group WODS.

WODYS started in 1982 with a handful of youngsters performing shows for their mothers and fathers at the rehearsal rooms.

Today, its high standard of musical theatre attracts sell-out audiences. The group has 75 members aged from eight to 18, a waiting list of 63 and another 50 youngsters in the newly formed WODYS Academy, which offers tuition for beginners.

Over the years the group has raised more than £12,000 for charities, including the Noah's Ark Trust, which supports bereaved children, the National Meningitis Trust and Acorns Children's Hospice Trust.

David Humphries, WODYS co-founder and chairman said: "That we have such a thriving theatre group is testament to the hard work put in over the years by those who have helped either as committee members, working backstage, or with music and choreography.

"Many former members are coming to our 25th anniversary party, either to entertain or watch and join in the fun. We are looking forward to a good evening and, hopefully, to another 25 years."

Meanwhile, WODYS' members are well into rehearsals for their musical Hot Mikado. It will bring jive, sassy songs, gospel, rhythm and blues and a great storyline to the Swan Theatre from Tuesday, July 31, to Saturday, August 4.

WODYS' recent productions have sold out so it is advisable to book early. Tickets are available at Huntingdon Hall box office on 01905 611427.