A BUDDING young actor is hoping to further his career after winning a place at drama school.

Adam Welch, 17, of Spennymoor, has been a member of the stage school at Durham's Gala Theatre for three years.

Adam, currently a pupil at Durham School, has won a place at the Mountview School of Drama in London to study his craft in greater detail.

But during the school holidays, he is helping out backstage as a spotlight operator for the Gala's pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

He said: "I love the whole theatre atmosphere, be it acting, dancing, singing or working behind the scenes. It really is a passion of mine.

"The place at such a well-respected drama college is a major step in my dream of becoming a professional on the stage. You can never get enough experience of work in a theatre.

"It is such a great feeling, especially at this time of year.''

A stage school spokeswoman said: "We are very proud of what Adam has achieved.

"There is a wealth of talent in this area and all of the hard work Adam has put in is now rewarding him with this place.

"He will be a great miss when he goes as he is a great part of the stage school.

"He is someone who the younger members of the school can look up to as a success and they, no doubt, would like to follow in his footsteps.'

Published: 30/12/2004