A BLACKPOOL theatre student has landed a starring role in new television comedy drama, Shameless.

Rebecca Atkinson, a 20-year-old student at Phil Winston's Theatreworks, Blackpool, was just right for the role of cheeky teen Karen Jackson because she 'had the right face for the job'.

"I couldn't believe my luck when I went to audition for Shameless, they told me I had got the part more or less straight away because I was exactly what they were looking for," she said.

In the seven part series -- already being hailed a hit -- Rebecca's 16-year-old character makes moves on her mother's alcoholic fancy man Frank (played by David Threlfall) causing all sorts of trouble.

"Originally I think the intention was to cast someone younger but because some of the scenes are quite raunchy I think a younger actress would have found it quite daunting, I know I would have a few years ago," said Rebecca.

The former Preston College dance and drama student appears in five episodes of the series about the lives and loves of an anarchic Manchester family.

"The drama has had brilliant reviews so it is hoped there will be a second series where there may be a possibility Karen may reappear to cause more trouble," she added.

Originally from Manchester, Rebecca has been an Equity card holder from 15, appearing in TV programmes including The Royal, Children's Ward, Heartbeat and drama special Now You See Her with Amanda Holden.

She also caused a stir in Coronation Street when Jason and Kirk saw her on their Blackpool trip.

"I seem to have been cast as the person who causes a stir quite a few times now -- I call it the 'love interest' because there always seems to be some intimate involvement too," she laughed.

"I think it is a lot easier to play someone who has quite a wicked streak in them and it is fun because in real life you just can't be like that and have people like you."

Rebecca, due to graduate from Phil Winston's Theatreworks this summer, also plans to move into professional theatre.

"Theatre gives you a very good grounding in acting technique and skill, the pressure is on to get it 100 per cent perfect. I am eager to broaden my experience and develop professionally," she added.