A TALE of buccaneers and buried gold comes to Milford Haven School this month.

Pupils will perform pirate tale Treasure Island, thanks to a drama project run by the Torch Theatre.

The drama club, run by Chloe Wheeler and Johnny Lock from the Torch, has been rehearsing a new adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson story.

Around 35 pupils are involved, with most of the cast coming from Years 7 to 10, with assistance by some older students.

The project started last year, and rehearsals are going well.

“There’s been an amazing change in the pupils taking part,” said Chloe.

"I've seen a massive rise in their confidence, they have really come into their own."

Asked why they chose to adapt Treasure Island, Chloe said: "“We wanted to take on a classic tale, and one that fitted with Milford’s identity as a marina town.”

She said it has also inspired pupils to read the original book.

“It’s got them interested in something they wouldn’t have known about otherwise.”

The pair, who now also teach GCSE drama after school, hope this will herald a "new era" for the school, which has not had drama for several years.

"We hope the live performance will be a positive experience for them and word spreads through the school," said Chloe.

"If all goes well we would love to do this again next year."

Caitlyn Arran, 12, plays Black Dog, a fearless pirate and one of Long John Silver’s top dogs.

As well as being part of St Katharine Stratford Players, Caitlyn also attends the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff.

“It’s been very good fun, and Johnny and Chloe have been amazing,” said Caitlyn.

“There’s not been anything like this at the school for years, so it’s great we’ve got it back now.”

Fifteen-year-old Luke Walters added: “I was a bit nervous initially, but I knew I would really enjoy it, so I gave it a go.

“It’s good because you think you can’t do it, but when you do you’re proud of yourself, and it’s good because a few of my friends are doing it too.”

In addition to support from the Torch Theatre, Chloe said Viv Barratt and Geraint Sayers of St Katharine Stratford Players had also been a huge help.

The performance will be at 7.30pm at the school's Steynton Hall.

Tickets, on sale at the school library, will be £6, with £4 concessions.

They will also be available on the night.