A new drama group is seeking young talented actors to give them the chance to make and star in their own film.

Youngstar Productions, a company based in Hampshire, is looking for actors between ten and 20 to join their group in Oxford, which was set up in January.

They screened their first 15-minute film in April at the Phoenix Cinema in Jericho, Oxford, and are now looking for fresh talent for their February production.

Company director Louisa Hart said: "It started in Hampshire and the group has grown to more than 100 children and they are now taking part in their own TV series.

"I chose Oxford because it is closer to London. We have contacts in London who are very keen on using our children. Three from the Oxford group have already been in productions.

"They get to work on issues relevant to them. April's film was on teenage pregnancy. They work on it from now until Christmas, working with a professional writer on their own ideas."

On the night of the premiere, the red carpet is rolled out and the children get the full Hollywood treatment. An Oscar-style ceremony follows later in the year.

Mrs Hart is holding a taster day on Saturday, October 14, for youngsters to try their hand at film-making.

She said: "The workshop afternoon will be an opportunity for those taking part to work with professional scriptwriters, actors and crew to see if they would like to be part of this year's exciting film project."

To book a place call Mrs Hart on 023 8033 9322 or visit www.youngstar.tv for more information.

Anna Dowdeswell