ANYONE walking into the Bolton Lads and Girls Club could be forgiven for thinking they had stumbled into the Top of the Pops studio.

Pop idols such as Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani and even Michael Jackson mingled at the event this week and performed a selection of their hits.

But, with the real stars unfortunately otherwise engaged, members of the clubs Independence Group were quite happy to take their places at the groups annual Christmas show, which this year was given a Top of the Pops theme.

An audience of around 300 enjoyed the show put on by the group for young people with learning difficulties and physical disabilities.

For the past three months, a cast of 30 people aged from 14 to 25 have been busy rehearsing for the night and, according to group co-ordinator Therese Powell, the hard work paid off.

Therese said: "This annual show was a great success for everyone. There was a full audience made up of parents, friends, supporters, and patrons and staff who loved every minute.

"The club emphasises that regardless of disability, all can participate finding a variety of roles to experience: lighting, stage management, singing and dancing, and a chance to express themselves in a different way."

She added: "It was a great night of pride, confidence and enjoyment."