The budding young starlets set to hit the limelight in the country's biggest youth production have been announced.

Oliver! supported by the Oxford Mail will showcase some of the county's finest talent in August.

Hundreds of aspiring actors queued for hours to audition for a role in the production at the New Theatre, in George Street.

Spokesman Joel Barnett said it was the largest turnout for a youth project in the theatre's history.

George Glister, 12, who won the lead role of Oliver, and Olivia White, who plays Bet, are pictured celebrating the news outside the stage door.

Other main roles went to Andrew McIntosh, 12, as the Artful Dodger, Fagin will be performed by David Wilson, 19, and the role of Nancy will be split between 19-year-old Elanor Fanyinka and 20-year-old Louise Cobb.

Emma Bentley, of the Live Nation's youth project co-ordinator, said: "We're absolutely thrilled.

"We had hundreds of young hopefuls walk through our doors to audition, and they all showed tremendous talent.

"Although it was very difficult to make a final decision, we're delighted to announce a very strong cast of 220, with those involved aged between eight and 25."

She urged anyone interested in working backstage or in the wardrobe department to call the theatre on 01865 320760.