Thespians who staged a pantomime in Birchencliffe have two reasons to celebrate.

The Cliffites’ production of Dick Whittington brought in record-breaking audiences when they took to the stage in February.

The group, based at St Philip’s Community Centre, enjoyed their most successful opening night.

And that helped boost a local charity as proceeds from ticket sales from that night were donated to the Joseph Salmon Trust.

A total of £400 was handed over to the Marsh-based charity which helps bereaved parents.

Presenting the cheque on behalf of the theatre group was Stephanie Potts, the show’s writer who played Queen Rat, and Matthew Wilson who played Dick Whittington.

Eve, Lydia and Rachael Salmon accepted the cash for the charity.

The Cliffites perform a pantomime in February each year.

The group made a comeback four years ago after their home burnt down in March 2007.

Birchencliffe Parish Hall on Briarlyn Road was destroyed in an arson attack. This left numerous community groups homeless before its replacement was opened on the site.