A Whitehaven thespian has been nominated for a prestigious award with the National Operatic and Dramatic Association.

Alex Clark has been nominated for the best lead role in the musical category for his portrayal as Mr Mushnik in Whitehaven Theatre Group's musical Little Shop of Horrors.

He said: "It's a great honour to have been nominated. Everyone was brilliant in the production. The feedback we received was great."

Little Shop of Horrors was Mr Clark's first performance with the theatre, and it was a "fantastic" experience, he said.

Shaun Donald, chairman of Whitehaven Theatre Group, said: "Alex played the role of Mr Mushnik to a tee, capturing all aspects of the cranky flower shop owner's character and he is fully deserving of the prestigious award."

"This is our third nomination in five years and we are thrilled that our productions are going from strength-to-strength.

"This is Alex's first nomination, and in fact his first principal role with us here at Whitehaven Theatre Group."

Mr Donald added: "On behalf of Whitehaven Theatre Group, I would like to wish him all the success. Even to receive such nomination is an honour in itself."

In past years, numerous theatre group members have been nominated in the NODA awards including Mr Clark's wife, Beth Clark (nee McGarry) who was nominated in 2007, Mr Donald was nominated in 2009 and Aaron Armstrong in 2013.

The group has also received nominations for best pantomime in 2014 and best play in 2000.

Next month, Mr Clark and ten supporters are set to travel to the Manchester Mecure Hotel where the awards ceremony will be held.

For more information, search for Whitehaven Theatre Group on Facebook.