STUDENT James Wilkinson found himself in the spotlight at the launch of Darlington Civic Theatre's summer repertory season.

The Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College student joined stars Fenella Fielding, David Griffin and Sophie Lawrence as the four plays to be staged were announced.

James, 19, from Woodham, Newton Aycliffe, is one of the winners of a scholarship to work with Ian Dickens Productions, which promotes the popular season.

He will spend a month with the company, working behind the scenes and on stage at the Civic.

James will appear in a small role in a stage adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier's Rebecca, alongside Carry On actress Fenella Fielding and former EastEnders actor Michael Tudor Barnes.

"It's a wonderful opportunity to gain some experience," said James, who wants to become an actor.

He is taking a year off after completing his A-levels in theatre, art and general studies before auditioning for drama school.

James had his first taste of performing at school.

"I just had a go and that was quite magical. I've been in school plays and amateur shows trying to get as much experience as possible," he said.

Before his debut at the Civic, he is playing Robinson Crusoe in an Easter pantomime being staged by the Acorn Players, a local amateur drama group with which he has worked regularly.

The other scholarship winner, Donna Marie Young, 19, from Darlington, was unable to attend the launch.

She is studying for an honours degree in drama and English literature at the University of Central Lancashire.

The summer repertory season also features Alan Ayckbourn's Table Manners, the psychological thriller Dangerous Obsession with ex-EastEnder Sophie Lawrence, and Willy Russell's Educating Rita, with David Griffin, from the TV comedy series Hi-Di-Hi! and Keeping Up Appearances.

Tickets are available from the Civic Theatre box office on (01325) 486555.