RESPECTABLE Bolton schoolboys have been enticed to turn into pickpockets . . . all for the sake of theatre.

Jordan Crook, Aaron Dootson and Martyn Naylor from Withins School have been working on how to perfect the dubious art with the help of members of Bolton Little Theatre.

But it is all strictly above board -- and in the festive spirit!

The Withins School youngsters, together with Lorna Blinkhorn from Hayward School, have been enlisted to appear in Bolton Little Theatre's Christmas production of A Christmas Carol.

The youngsters are so keen that one, Jordan, has insisted the show must go on -- despite being struck down with burst appendix two weeks ago.

The teenager was rushed to hospital, yet was back on stage the following week, and will be fit to roll about stage by opening night.

A Christmas Carol will run at Bolton Little Theatre on Hanover Street, from December 1 to 8 (excluding December 3 and 4) and includes Saturday and Sunday matinees.

In addition to the young pickpockets, two teams of dancers have been recruited from Lostock School of Dance to provide a magical opening Victorian Christmas card scene. Joining them -- on stilts -- will be John Szekely and Leanne Lomax from Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

The youthful influence continues with Philip Barratt's music. Philip, in his final year at St James' Secondary School, has created a spine-chilling atmosphere by composing and recording some of the music.

And it is a youngster who also gets the last word. The famous last line of the play 'God bless us everyone', goes to nine-year-old Tiny Tim, William Livesey, from Devonshire Road Primary School.

Tickets are from the BLT box office on 524469 and the Albert Halls Ticket and Information Centre on 334400. REHEARSAL TIME: Dancers perform the opening Victorian Christmas card scene