AFTER leading the Young Actors of North Tawton (YANTS) for 13 years, group co-ordinator Wendy Hill is stepping down, letting Tracey Norman and Sarah Cacchio tackle the job of spearheading the group.

Tracey said: 'Wendy will definitely be missed. She was a wonderful ambassador for the group and ran things with a very inclusive attitude —anyone was and is welcome, irrespective of ability.

'All people need is plenty of enthusiasm. We will be continuing to operate the group in this way.'

The two women have not been involved with YANTS very long, but already see the potential of the group. Sarah said: 'I've only been helping with the group for a year, originally to help with choreography.

'I was made very welcome by the kids and regular helpers. I did not want to see the group fold after seeing how much the kids get out of it.'

YANTS run monthly workshops and group improvisation sessions, which encourages the imagination and natural talents of youngsters participating.

Sarah said: 'The group loves improvisation and so we try to stick to this. We often use games to make them think for themselves.

The pair have a two-year plan for the groups regarding performances.

Tracey said: 'We've come up with a two-year programme where ANTS (the senior group) and YANTS will alternate between smaller shows and larger-scale productions, so everyone has the chance to have a rest.

'I would like to see members of YANTS taking part in more of the main ANTS productions so the two groups interact with each other in the future.

'I'd also like to try things like competitive one-act play festivals and dinner theatre to give the YANTS new experiences.'

The group are looking for people to fill roles in their backstage team and appeal to anyone interested in the stage to step forward. They are looking for a press secretary, a show secretary for their upcoming pantomime, and assistance with period costume design. They are also exploring as many different avenues for funding as possible.

Following their monthly workshops, rehearsals for the group's next show begin in September, with the show scheduled to take place in November.

For further information on the group, call Tracey Norman on 07530 961818.