A NEW production at Blackwood Miners' Institute will look at the effects of war on young people.

Performers from Caerphilly County Youth Theatre are set to showcase Bassett, which depicts youngsters who have inherited a world at war. It looks at how they start to ask questions about conflicts, their country and themselves as they get older.

The story begins at lunchtime in a Wootton Bassett classroom, where pupils have been locked in by a supply teacher.

Tensions mount as they are keen to get out and attend a repatriation ceremony for a soldier who lost his life fighting for his country.

Director Tony Gallagher said the timing of Bassettt is pertinent as a conflict in Afghanistan is currently going on, with constant "in your face" reminders.

He said: "Cast members feel pupils at the school in Wootton Bassett are in a unique and perhaps at times, surreal situation compared to other pupils in other schools across the UK, because although they are thousands of miles away from war torn Afghanistan, they are constantly reminded of what is happening each time there is the repatriation of a soldier."

Mr Gallagher said he hopes the play will encourage audience members to think of the effects constant reminders of war have on youngsters.

The production is in association with National Theatre Connections 2011 and runs from Monday, February 14 until 18, starting at 8pm.

Tickets are available on 01495227206 or blackwoodminersinstitute.com