A YOUNG Slovakian actress, planning to take to the stage in Ilkley, is hoping that a

hospitable family will offer her a place to stay.

Nina Gasparikova, who recently took a starring role in a major Slovakian film, wishes to perfect her English at the bosom of an Ilkley family.

The 16-year-old is also hoping to increase her acting skills by getting involved in a drama group in the town.

Nina, from Bratislava, is seeking a host family for her ten-month stay through exchange co-ordinators,

the Foundation for Foreign Study.

Liz Edmonds, regional manager of the company, which places 250 students each year to experience foreign cultures, said: "We are very pleased to welcome Nina to the

programme especially as she is the first Slovakian student we have ever had.

"This year is even more

exiting than ever as for the first time we are offering a fixed grant towards food and bills."

Prospective host families must be prepared to accept Nina as a member of the family.

Nina, a top student, who also plays the guitar, would also be expected to attend an Ilkley school.

l Anyone interested in

offering Nina a place to stay for her visit in September should

telephone 01943 607744.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.