A POWERFUL production of Les Miserables won gifted Widnes students standing ovations from almost 1,000 spectators at four performances.

Rapturous applause filled the Centre Stage in Kingsway as the Cronton Sixth Form College cast and musicians took their final bow.

With passion and conviction, talented teenage actors with incredible voices brought the epic tale of the French revolution to life.

Matthew Headon, aged 19, from Coroners Lane stole the show with his poignant interpretation of Jean Valjean.

The Mayor of Halton, Clr Margaret Ratcliffe said: “It never ceases to amaze me how professional these students are. They are as good as any West End production.

“It was absolutely fantastic.”

Director Matt Plant said: “The Centre of Excellence in Performing Arts has yet again excelled in our production of Les Miserables. “They have all worked tremendously hard during rehearsals to produce this emotional theoretical performance which certainly is our most ambitious production.

“Students have had the fantastic opportunity to work with our patron and West End star, Zoe Curlett. We have been overwhelmed by the outstanding feedback we have received from people in the audience.”