A STUDENT from Darlington has beaten competition from other talented youngsters in the country to win a place in a national theatre company.

Georgia McIntyre, 11, has gained a place in Youth Music Theatre UK.

The Hummersknott School and Language College pupil was up against 250 other students, aged from 11 to 21, for a place in the company.

She had to attend a workshop and show her singing, dancing and acting skills to secure her place.

Her mother, Paula, said: "She's going to be one of the youngest ones there and so she is absolutely delighted to have won a place."

The family are now appealing for sponsors to help pay for Georgia's accommodation and travel costs when she attends rehearsals and performances in Plymouth in August.

Her first show with the company will be Queen of the Underground, a dramatic musical about a girl who falls in love with a boy from the wrong side of the tracks.

The bill for her trip to Plymouth is expected to be £700.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Georgia can contact Mrs McIntyre on 07973 814088.