THE champagne flowed for a West Somerset stage show that picked up a string of major awards at a recent ceremony.

West Side Story - the 2010 summer production from MATA (Minehead Amateur Theatrical Association) - received a total of ten nominations in Somerset Fellowship of Drama's David Beach Awards.

And at the sparkling ceremony at Taunton's county cricket ground, four of the major awards went to members of the MATA cast.

For her portrayal of Maria, Emily Cross won best actress in the under 21 category and also scooped the prestigious award for best actress in a leading role.

Meanwhile, Penny Longhurst won the title of best actress in a supporting role, playing the part of Anita in the show.

Lorraine Ahern received the coveted award for best choreography, with special mention of Dan Healey who choreographed the all important fight scenes.

And Doug Macdonald received the only highly commended in the best actor under 21 category.

First-time director of the highly successful show, Sarah Jane Cross and producer Mark Dorrill received the only highly commended award for the Challenge Trophy.

Other nominations were Josh Wichard for Riff in the under 21 category, and Jameel Khan as Bernardo for best supporting actor.

West Side Story was also nominated in the best small venue category and for the best chorus award, thanks to the efforts of musical director Paul Doolan.

A spokesman for the production said: "It was a wonderful evening for MATA and congratulations go to all the nominees and especially to the winners."

Photo: Steve Guscott