A talented Bradford pupil has been selected by a top acting school - one of only 37 to be picked out of more than 600 applicants.

Polly Johnston, a student at the Stage 84 performing arts school in Idle for the past 16 years, is beginning a BA honours degree in acting next month at the East 15 drama school in London.

Miss Johnston, pictured, of Idle, was selected for the course after performing a Shakespearean dialogue and a serious and comic drama piece before a panel of judges.

The 18-year-old has just passed three A-levels at Hanson School in Theatre Studies, Media Studies and Music.

"I am very excited about attending the school," she said. "It's a terrific opportunity for me and a wonderful thing to be able to do. It is going to set me in very good stead for the career I want to pursue.

"I really want to perform at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon or the Globe Theatre in London."

Miss Johnston, who sings and dances as well as acts, said she owed a big thank-you to Stage 84.

"It has been very hard work and it has sometimes felt as though I'm always at the school. But at the end of the day it's been brilliant and worth it all."

Over the summer Miss Johnston has been helping co-ordinate summer schools for prospective Stage 84 members.

She has also helped to organise and lead trips with the group such as a visit to the Millennium Dome in London in October 2000.

Stage 84 founder Valerie Jackson said she was proud of her student's achievement.

"East 15 is a very well known drama school," said Mrs Jackson. "I think Polly is a lovely young lady.

"She has shown dedication and commitment during her 16 years with us, not only as a student but also as a student teacher.

"My love and best wishes go with her."

Among former members of Stage 84 who have gone on to stardom is Jack Shepherd who plays Gail Platt's cheeky son David in Coronation Street.