In the heart of Idle village, a group of teenagers are busy doing warming up exercises and learning lines.

As Bradford's Capital of Culture bid is scrutinised by Government officials in London, closer to home this group of youngsters are doing their bit to back the campaign.

These are the It Kids, who have set up a spin-off youth section of the long-established Idle and Thackley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

Now the youngsters are about to stage their first major production, which is dedicated to Bradford's culture bid.

"We're very much behind the bid," said Russell Whittingham, who runs the group, "Bradford has a long tradition of excelling in the arts and this bid is a great way of promoting that.

"And if Bradford wins, it will mean more funding for groups like us.

"There's a lot of talent and enthusiasm in Bradford's amateur drama groups, especially among the younger ones, and this should be nurtured, with better facilities for a wider number of children - not just those who can afford drama schools."

Russell, a professional actor, aims to set up a semi-professional workshop at the Idle and Thackley Little Theatre.

"I like working with drama in the grass roots community and I'd like to get more professional actors on board, who can help with training and take part in productions," he said.

"The emphasis here is very much on the community - giving kids chance to be on stage and learn some backstage skills.

"With the right funding to improve facilities, we can have a decent little theatre workshop here.

"This is what Capital of Culture is all about - using the arts to bring people together, and promoting the talent here in Bradford.

"We're keen to promote the bid because we're keen to reap the benefits of it!"

Russell says the It Kids want to focus on challenging plays which give the audience food for thought.

Their first production is Willy Russell's comedy, Our Day Out, a gritty play set in the recession of the 1980s which follows a group of kids from inner city Liverpool on a school trip to the coast.

Our Day Out runs from April 25 to 27. Tickets are available on (01274) 411080.