ROMSEY students have scooped awards' at a local drama festival.

Pupils from The Mountbatten School’s advanced theatre group participated for the first time in the Totton Drama Festival.

They took part under the direction of Michelle Smith from South England Performing Arts and performed a play entitled Brainstorm.

The play, which was written by Ned Glasier and Emily Lim, explored the workings of a teenage brain, enlightening the audience about the struggles of young people as they navigate their neurological changes.

Eleven actresses took part in the production after five months of rehearsals.

On the night the adjudicator, Jennifer Scott Reid commented on the "beautiful stage pictures" and "excellent understanding of theatre" shown through the "highly engaging piece."

Three students received nominations for awards at the festival.

Elena and Alice, year ten students were nomintated for the adjudicator’s award for singing in the most poignant moment of the piece.

The school were also nominated for the technical award, for the creative use of balloons as well as best direction for Michelle Smith.

A further three categories resulted in trophies.

Best supporting youth actress was won by Harper who is in year 10, best supporting actress for Mia in year 10 and the group also scooped the award for best youth performance overall.