AN AWARD-WINNING youth group could be in line to scoop a much-needed bag of cash if it gets enough support.

Weymouth-based WOW Youth Musical Theatre is seeking public votes to secure £5,000 from the Lloyds Banking Community Fund for vital alterations to the rehearsal hall in Park Street.

The community fund supports organisations working to unlock the potential of youngsters – and people in different regions are encouraged to vote for groups they feel deserve support.

WOW is competing against three other organisations. The winner, announced in October, will be one of 140 good causes across the UK receiving a £5,000 boost.

WOW chairman Alan McKechan said: “We’re delighted to have been shortlisted as an organisation that unlocks the potential of young people. We hope the whole community will get behind WOW, as to win the public vote would be fantastic and help our work developing the talents of young people.”

WOW, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, has won acclaim for its musicals and cabaret shows. Past members are now treading the boards in the West End. Mr McKechan said the planned building alterations at the hall will allow funds currently used to rent a costume room to be redirected towards creative projects, including the cabaret group which will be performing in Weymouth for the Animating the Streets project as part of the Cultural Olympiad.

To support WOW in the vote send the text message VOTE DT4 to 61119. Also vote online at lloydsbankinggroupcommunities.com