STAGE 84 pupil Zara Salim has landed her first TV role - in the new series of Channel 4's Ackley Bridge.

Zara, 16, from Skipton attends drama classes at the Idle theatre school. She plays Kacey ‘Spud’ Gartside in Ackley Bridge and will be introduced later in the current series of the popular school drama.

Filming has taken place in West Yorkshire over recent months. The cast includes former EastEnders actress Jo Joyner and Downton Abbey star Robert James-Collier.

“Filming Ackley Bridge has been one of the most amazing experiences for me," said Zara. "My huge thanks go to Craig at Stage 84 for teaching me throughout the years, leading towards me achieving my ambition.

"I would also like to thank the cast and crew of the show for making me feel so welcome on my first ever job. It really is like one big family and I’m so honoured to be a part of it.”

Craig Winward, Stage 84 managing director and a teacher at the Skipton classes, said: “We are tremendously proud of Zara and the way her acting skillset has developed. We're delighted she has been cast in this high profile drama, filmed in our local area."