A new £50,000 initiative to boost participation in drama by schoolchildren all over Richmond has got off to a flying start.

The project was met with resounding support from borough headteachers, theatres and a host of arts organisations at an initial meeting at York House, Twickenham on Wednesday last week.

The Schools' Drama Project is now being taken forward by a steering group with a view to launching the scheme early next year.

The project is designed to rejuvenate interest in drama, by incorporating it fully into school life with workshops, masterclasses and stage performances before live audiences.

It was inspired by the success of the council's Competitive Edge initiative, launched last year to increase involvement by school pupils in competitive sport.

Deputy leader and cabinet member for schools, Councillor Geoffrey Samuel, said: "Competitive Edge has been a phenomenal success and we hope to repeat this in the field of drama through this new initiative. We want every school, state and independent, to take part.

"Partnership is the key, and the tremendous backing from schools and arts organisations that was evident at this initial meeting was truly inspiring. It has given the whole project a massive lift right at the start."

The council's cabinet member for the arts, Councillor Roger Avins, said the project looked set for a dramatic future.