TWO former New College Durham students are heading for places at two of the country's top drama colleges.

Brian Lonsdale, of Crook, has been offered a place at Rada (Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts) and Hannah Bond, of Durham, will study for a degree at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.

The pair have both completed studies on the BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts at New College, Durham.

In July last year, they shared the stage in a production of Shakespeare's Macbeth at the Gulbenkian Studios in Newcastle.

Brian was awarded a scholarship, which means he does not have to raise the money to cover his fees and expenses over his three years at Rada.

He said: "I still can't believe it. All I have ever wanted to do was act and this is going to be the chance of a lifetime."

Jenny Lingham, who runs the performing arts course, said: "Brian is the first of our students to make it to Rada.

"It is certainly one of the most prestigious drama schools, offering fantastic training and opportunities.

"Problems with funding have meant that many of our talented students do not even begin to consider it as an option for higher education.

"We are delighted for both Brian and Hannah, and I am sure that they will go on to huge success in the future."