Workington Amateur Operatic Society is celebrating after receiving its biggest ever haul of nominations from theatre association Noda.

The group has eight nominations in the Noda North West Awards 2017, including five for last year's youth production of Les Miserables.

The show is shortlisted in the categories for best staging of a youth production, best youth production and best youth ensemble.

Chloe Steadman is nominated for best female youth in a comedy performance for her portrayal of innkeeper's wife Madame Thenardier, while Andrew McMinn is up for best supporting male actor in a youth musical for his performance as Marius.

The society's adult production of Hairspray received three nominations, with Natasha McKenzie up for best choreography, Adam MacCreedy for best supporting male in a musical for his portrayal of Seaweed J Stubbs, and Mark Stilwell for best male comedy performance as Wilbur Turnblad.

Norman Brayton, society president, said: "It's unprecedented to get so many nominations. It's an outstanding achievement for both our adult and junior groups.

"It's the culmination of an absolutely fantastic 2016 which was our 110th anniversary year.

"To get this recognition for our special year with two outstanding sell-out productions is a credit to the wonderful team and talent we have in the society."

Waos members are not the only locals waiting to hear if it will bring home prizes from the awards ceremony in Manchester on April 30.

Workington and District Amateur Musical Society is nominated in the best pantomime category for its production of Sleeping Beauty.

Meanwhile, Maryport Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society was the only shortlisted nominee in the best deluxe programme category for their production of Elf Junior.