A SIMPLE festive show is bringing hope to women whose lives were once blighted by drug addiction.

The curtain will go up on 'Jericho Girls Do Christmas' at St John's Church on December 21.

The girls who live in the unit at Shankland Road use drama as part of their recovery process.

Stacy Ramsay has been through the programme herself and is now a support worker.

She said: "The girls love doing the shows.

"They've chosen all the songs themselves this year and it will be a mixture of festive and pop tunes. The second half is a bit of a surprise and will feature a very special guest!"

She says performing helps boosts confidence and self esteem.

Stacy said: "We have a girl who at first couldn't even look you in the eye. Now she is on stage on her knees playing air guitar."

Carrie Forrester, 37, has come back to Jericho as a volunteer, to help put the show together.

She said: "I hated the drama at first. I think it was lack of confidence. I would hardly say two words to anyone. Now I enjoy it, it's a good laugh and about being part of a team."

Carrie spent 16 months at the unit and another six months working there as a volunteer.

She said: "It's nice to be able to encourage them."

Carrie said Jericho became like a family to her,

She said: "It was overwhelming when I came out and started a new life, clean and free from drugs.

"Now I've got choices, I can do courses or voluntary work, my life has opened up."

Senior support worker Margaret Diamond said: "Carrie's mum, step-mum and her brother came to see her and were all so proud of her. Her mum said she thought she would never see the day that Carrie would perform on stage.

"She's a completely different person."

Support worker Carol Christie says the shows are a crucial part of the Jericho programme.

She said: "It's a priority for the unit, not just for the service users, but all staff. We all feel that it's something we can do together."

Carol has also found that she has a hidden talent.

Stacy said: "Turns out Carol is very good on the stage, especially with the more serious roles."

The show will start at 7.30pm and doors open from 6.30pm. Tickets costing £5 are available on the door.