Members of a drama group in Maldon have revealed their delight after being nominated for a national award for their post-lockdown return to the stage.

Maldon Drama Group staged hit comedy The Ladykillers in October as members' first production since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, bringing laughter to audiences with their three-day run.

The fast-moving black comedy was originally released as a film in 1955 and the group's version of the play remained close to the original, which tells the story of a gang of thieves posing as amateur musicians in order to move into an elderly lady's home to plot a major heist.

The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) has now nominated Maldon Drama Group for best comedy for its production of The Ladykillers.

Carey Brown, a member of the group, said she is "really excited" to reveal the nomination.

She said: "Every production we do is adjudicated by both NODA and the North Essex Theatre Guild (NETG) and a full report is sent to the group covering direction, each individual actor, back stage, set and props, technical and front of house.

"Huge accolade should go to our regular director Helen Rasmussen, who is also directing our current production Treasure Island.

"This is a real fun comedy romp through this much-loved classic tale - not sticking terribly close to the original, but with bad jokes and slapstick aplenty it promises a good laugh and a thoroughly enjoyable night out."

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Treasure Island will be staged at Maldon Town Hall, on Market Hill, from 7 to 9 April at 7.45pm.

The award ceremony for the NODA nomination will take place the day after the run ends, on 10 April.

Tickets for Treasure Island can be bought here.