Jolene Howorth, of St John's Place, has won the chance to attend the prestigious group's summer school just days after her 18th birthday.

The former pupil of Pendle Vale College, Nelson, is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Dame Helen Mirren, Daniel Craig and "Little Britain" creators Matt Lucas and David Walliams, who began their careers at the NYT.

"I'm still in shock," said Jo. "I can't believe I got in.

"The competition at the auditions was really strong. I've wanted to do acting since I was eight, but didn't do anything until I was a little older. I love acting because it lets me be someone else and live a different life.

"Going to the National Youth Theatre is a great opportunity to be seen by casting agents and other drama schools. My dream is to have a part in 'Dr Who."

At her audition, Jo performed an extract from a play about the Pendle Witches called "Cold Light Singing", written by East Lancashire playwright Yvonne Pinnington.

She will now spend two weeks at the NYT in August and needs to find funding for her training period in London. Anyone wishing to support her is asked to contact Andrew Spencer at this newspaper on 612561.