A YOUNG actor will be joining a national theatre group thanks to the assistance of several aspiring performers.

An evening of entertainment saw actors take the stage and raise £1,900 last Wednesday (June 17) at The Met in Market Street.

The evening was held to raise funds for 20-year-old Leo Flanagan to join the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain.

Performances from North West Stage School, Bury College, North West Theatre Arts Company, local singers, comedians and bands entertained the audience.

Leo, of Rochdale Old Road, who started out in The Met's Youth Theatre in 2008 at the age of 13, has played roles in television dramas including Waterloo Road and Moving On written by Jimmy McGovern, as well as a part in Channel 4’s Fresh Meat.

Leo, an artistic assistant at Cotton Shed Theatre Company in Haslingden, said: “I would just like say a massive thank you to everyone who has helped me get this show on the stage.

“Thank you to all the talented acts who performed and to The Met Theatre for all of their help, I have no idea what I would have done without their support.

“And finally, thank you to everyone who came down to watch the show and donated.”

Leo will start his month-long intensive course with the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain in August.

He will have the opportunity to meet and work with industry professionals including actors, directors and producers who work at theatres all over the country.

After completing this course, Leo will have be able to the opportunity to audition for shows on the West End stages.