AN ACTOR has launched a performance school in Leigh.

Nicola Holt, who has starred in DCI Banks and Hollyoaks will run The Arts Academy at the Westleigh Lane school.

Classes will take place on Wednesdays.

Nicola, 30, said: “Drama is such an important aspect of the curriculum in many ways and it’s not only for those budding actors.

"It’s about confidence and stepping out of the comfort zone to prepare children for things such as job interviews, public speaking, building on their social skills to integrate with others and build new friendships.”

Nicola devised the idea after seeing how much technology, video games and mobile phones are dominating children’s minds.

She added: “I want to bring things back to basics and stimulate the imagination of these children using performance skills.”

For more information about The Arts Academy visit thearts-academy.com.