AMATEUR dramatics enthusiasts in Penhill are to get a better stage.

The stage at St Peter's Church Hall is badly in need of repair.

Now the Penhill Players will be able to install a new timber backdrop and curtains thanks to a £1,500 grant from Swindon insurance giant Zurich.

Since forming in 2003, the players have staged three productions.

The last was Scrooge of Penhill at Christmas.

Rehearsals are currently taking place for a summer variety show.

John Saunders, treasurer of the group which has 40 members, mainly children, said: "It's a real boost for morale on the estate when people see things like this happening.

"The stage has suffered from years of neglect, but now we get much better scenery."