IPSWICH'S Co-op Juniors are celebrating again after adding another accolade to their ever-growing list of awards and acclaim. The ever-popular company has been announced as joint winner of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association's prestigious Councillor's Cup.

IPSWICH'S Co-op Juniors are celebrating again after adding another accolade to their ever-growing list of awards and acclaim.

The ever-popular company has been announced as joint winner of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association's prestigious Councillor's Cup.

Almost 140 amateur productions had been in the running for the award, but the Co-op Juniors' 2003/4 production of Pinocchio was singled out for its unique combination of ambition and creativity.

Presenting the cup to Jeannie Ingram, co-director of the Co-op Juniors, at a gala dinner attended by representatives of amateur and performing arts groups from across the east of England, NODA vice president Eric Smart paid tribute to the company for its contribution to entertainment in Ipswich. He also praised the Juniors' ability to grow talent to work with other companies in professional theatre.

In respect of Pinocchio he singled out the quality of the costumes all of which were designed and made by members of the group for a cast of nearly 100 performers.

Mrs Ingram said: "This recognition of our achievements, especially with such strong competition, is a real honour.

"Every member of the company, both on stage and behind the scenes, contributes to what makes the Co-op Juniors so special.

"We're particularly excited to have won the award with such a strong field of contenders."

The Juniors were joint winners of the Councillor's Cup with a production of The Boyfriend from Lincoln.

Meanwhile the company has little time to take time out to celebrate as its members are working hard on its forthcoming productions.

Mrs Ingram added: "We're in the midst of rehearsals for Les Miserables at the Regent in July and planning our Christmas Spectacular at Snape Maltings in December so it's a busy time."

n Les Miserables Schools Edition will be at Ipswich Regent from July 13 to 16. Tickets are available by calling 01473 433100. Meanwhile the Christmas Spectacular will be at Snape Maltings Concert Hall from December 14 to 18. Tickets are available by calling 01728 687110.

Weblink: www.co-opjuniors.co.uk