KIDS from Linwood starred in film and on stage to show how getting involved in cultural activities can benefit mental health.

Members of the Linwood Youth Voice starred in four films and a written play at the Paisley Town Hall in a bid to show that drama and culture can change people’s lives for the better.

The group staged the show, How Amdram changed our lives, which let youngsters show how bein part of theatrical experiences can increase confidence, self-esteem and self-belief.

Nathan McCuaig, 17, the chair of Linwood Youth Voice, said: “Drama is a fantastic way to boost your confidence and come out of your shell as a young person.

“It is important that every young person has the opportunity to get involved in drama and creative expression in their local community.

“It has helped us create our own voice here in Linwood and it has inspired many of us to look at getting involved in creative industries as a career. Everything for the productions was made and organised with the help of two drama groups based in Renfrewshire, CLASS Acts and Linwood Area of Dance Drama and Song who also played their part on screen and stage.

The groups collective mission was to show that cultural activities should be accessible in all communities and the benefits to people’s wellbeing it can have.

The project received funding from Renfrewshire’s Culture Heritage and Events Fund, designed to boost the area’s creative capacity as part of Paisley’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021.

Jean Cameron, the director for Paisley 2021’s bid, said: “We know culture has the power to make people’s lives better and it is fantastic that Linwood Youth Voice have shown what it can do for young people.”