A BUDDING actor was left speechless after receiving national recognition.

Adam May, 19, from Bishop Auckland, has won a regional place with the National Youth Theatre after successfully auditioning in February.

Dozens of youngsters applied for ten North-East places, and were whittled down during five days of gruelling auditions in Newcastle.

Adam said: “I had just finished a 12-hour shift working behind the bar at Auckland Castle when I read the letter telling me I’d won a place.

“I couldn’t believe it, I was speechless. I am so excited about it.”

The youngster – who has just finished his A-levels at King James I Community Arts College, in Bishop Auckland – has been a member of Bishop Auckland Theatre Hooligans (Bath) for more than eight years.

Adam will join the National Youth Theatre in London for 11 days from August 18, and plans to study drama at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, in September.

Debbie Connell, who helps run Bath, said: “We are all very pleased with Adam’s progress.

“This is a huge opportunity for him, and an excellent achievement for someone from this area.”