A CHILDREN'S theatre school is celebrating its success as it moves into its second year of operation.

Since it began a year ago, the Guisborough branch of the international theatre school, Stagecoach, has proved popular with the area's four to 16 year-olds.

Based at Prior Pursglove College, the theatre school teaches youngsters many of the skills that they will need to act, sing and dance, as well as helping to develop important life skills, such as confidence and cooperation.

Its principal, Rob Clilverd, said yesterday that he was delighted with the school's progress to date.

"There seems to be a lot of natural talent in the area - as well as a real interest in the performing arts," said Mr Clilverd.

"We have some excellent students in the school."

Among the highlights of the past year has been Stagecoach's participation in the Pursglove Centre summer playscheme, where youngsters were given a two-day introduction to the kind of skills its students are taught.

Any enthusiastic young people - regardless of their experience - who would like to enrol in this term's classes should ring Mr Clilverd on (01642) 591168.