A BUDDING actress from Stacksteads who has been offered a place at the prestigious Guildford School of Acting is looking for sponsors to help with her fees

Leanne Hoyle, 21, of Farholme Lane, was not awarded a scholarship and must find £30,000 before she can take up their offer of a place.

She decided on the school, whose past pupils include the singer, Michael Ball, after completing a BTEC in performing arts at Accrington and Rossendale College and an HND in theatre at Newcastle University.

Her 19-year-old sister, Kristen, is already there, having won a scholarship last year.

So Leanne is desperate to join her at the Guildford school. She said: "I wanted to go straight from college, but at that time they were not awarding scholarships, that is why I went to Newcastle University for two years."

Scholarships are awarded to 41 people a year.

The auditions for this year's scholarship places were held on the day Leanne returned from a holiday in Turkey.

"The letter telling me about the auditions was sent during my holiday, and I could not make the date," she said.

"I got a place at the school, but can't take it unless I show them that I can raise £30,000 for my fees."

Not being able to raise the fees would mean Leanne missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"I know £30,000 is a lot of money and I don't have much time to raise it, but any help in any way, shape or form would be fantastic for me."

Unless the money is raised by September 19, Leanne will not be able to take her place at the school.

Her mother Lynn said: "We have tried to raise £8,000 for her first-year fees, but we have to show that we can afford the full £30,000. It is too much for us so we need help."

Anyone who can assist Leanne should call Lynn on 01706 874125.