A STAGE-STRUCK teenager's dream of stardom has come a step closer after he landed a coveted place at a renowned performing arts school.

Ross Proctor received three A-level passes when results were announced at Framwellgate School, Durham, last week.

It meant he was able to take up a place at the Guildford School of Acting, Surrey.

The offer followed three strenuous auditions, one of which was for a scholarship to help cover the costs.

Following an eight-week wait Ross learned that not only will he be among the 61-strong intake at Guildford next month, but he was also selected as one of just 21 applicants to win a £9,000 scholarship for the musical theatre course, whose old boys include Michael Ball.

"It was a few weeks ago that I heard I'd got the scholarship, so it was just a case of waiting to ensure I managed at least two A-level passes."

Ross, 18, of Newton Hall, Durham, is looking forward to starting the three-year course at Guildford, which he hopes will culminate with a BA honours degree in performing arts.

Ross has proved an all-round talent by being lead tenor in the Durham County Youth Choir for the past three years and principle cornet player in Framwellgate School Band, which has taken him on performing tours to New York and Washington DC.