A young actor is swapping riches for rags as he takes on a new role.

Christopher Town is only nine years old but is already proving his diversity on the stage. The youngster has just completed a run at the Alhambra in a professional production of The King and I, in which he played the part of Louis, the son of royal tutor Anna, played by Marti Webb.

The show was set in the opulent surroundings of the King of Siam's residence. Now Christopher, pictured, is leaving all that behind for the slums of Victorian London as he takes on the title role of Oliver in the popular musical.

The show, performed by Idle & Thackley Amateurs, will run at Bingley Arts Centre from July 1 to 5. Tickets are available on (01274) 411080 or (01274) 752000.