Stage-struck youngsters are hoping to follow in the footsteps of their drama teacher, former Emmerdale star Sally Walsh, after auditioning for the top soap.

Six pupils at Drama 2000 have now tried out for parts on the programme which made Sally, pictured, a familiar face to millions. Three were asked back to the last round of auditions and while none has made it quite yet Sally is sure it is only a matter of time.

"I am quite conscious that I do not push them into something they don't want to do, because none of them has done anything like audition for a soap before," said Sally.

"It was their choice but it is nice for them to have the experience and it builds their confidence.

"They all said they really enjoyed it even thought they were very nervous. But they realise now that it is not that scary.

"They know I have done it myself and not that long ago. They trust me to be able to help them through."

The 21-year-old, who played Marlon's girlfriend Lyn Hutchinson in the show, now has more than 50 pupils at her drama studio, Drama 2000, in Sandy Lane, Allerton.

The youngsters, aged from four to 15, attend classes on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings for tuition in solo and group acting, mime, poetry, prepared reading and TV and film techniques.

While some have been busy attending auditions, others are preparing for speech and drama exams in July and others have taken part in the Wharfedale Festival.

Sally, who now lives in Idle, said she was also hoping to put on a show in November. She said: "I get a lot of reward from seeing shy children come out of their shells.

"Even if it is just to read a poem in front of the class, it is such a big achievement."

It is now 12 months since Sally left Emmerdale, and as well as setting up Drama 2000, the former Beckfoot School student has been busy attending auditions of her own.

She has been enjoying working in different mediums, such as theatre and radio, and still keeps in contact with her former colleagues at Emmerdale.

She said: "You never know what is around the corner in this industry. It is so hit and miss but as long as you can accept that fact you will be all right."

Classes cost £5 for a one-hour session. For more information contact (01274) 614874.