IT was a case of lights, camera and action for budding thespians when they received a masterclass in television acting from two well known soap stars.

Emmerdale stars Sammy Winward and Roxy Shahidi delivered a TV workshop at Stagecoach Performing Arts Bolton, working with its aspiring actors.

The young drama students found out what it was like on a television set — in front and behind the cameras, from acting techniques to being directed.

The two professional actresses created a television set in the school complete with all the backstage equipment and props.

Kimberley Riley-Shipperbottom from Stagecoach, Bolton, said: "The students had been sent scripts a week before.

"They were filmed as they worked in pairs.

"The two taught them about lighting, camera techniques and gave them direction.

"The students did an amazing job, they worked really well together."

She added: "We have had students perform at the Octagon.

"Television work could be the next job for students, and now they have an idea of what to expect and will feel comfortable."

As well as learning about acting on television, the young drama students said they had a lot of fun.

William Burrows, aged 11, said: "I have learned new skills, and found out about another aspect of acting.

"It was a fun day."

Rhianna Taylor-Birch, aged 13, said: "I felt in this workshop I learnt a lot of skills.

"This has improved my confidence with this type of acting."

Sammy played Katie Sugden in the hit ITV soap and also starred in ITV's Prey and Roxy plays Leyla Harding.

Sammy said: "Roxy and I had a fantastic time meeting and teaching all the young talented students at Stagecoach Bolton.

"We were incredibly impressed with the students' acting.

"This is fabulous school and being a Bolton girl, it made me proud."