A PLACE at the world-famous The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts awaits talented teenager Alisha Bond.

The 16-year-old schoolgirl successfully auditioned for a place at the drama school, attended by The Tudors' Gabrielle Anwar and other A-list actors – and is now appealing for help from the people of Bolton to help her take up the place.

But the St James' CE High School, has to find £12,000 to fund her place on the performing arts course.

Alisha, who lives in Over Hulton, said: "I am so excited.

"It means everything to go there its my dream.

" I used to watch ‘School for Stars’ with my friends but never thought I end up getting a place there.

"It doesn’t happen to a lot of people.

"My dance and drama teachers and peers gave me the belief that I could do it.

"Acting is my main passion and all I have ever wanted to do and I will do everything it takes to fulfil my dream."

Alisha who has been performing since four has taken to the stage at the Palace Theatre appearing in Guys & Dolls, Annie and Grease, as well as appearing on CBBC with Sports Relief does Glee Club. Her ambition is to appear in the West End.

She added: "I start Italia Conti Academy in September.

"I’ve got a long way to go to meet my target of £12,000 for the course.

"I’ve got the ‘Go Fund Me’ account and I am writing letters to lots of people including businesses. I’ve been advised that businesses can help me as they have pots of money they will give to charity and right now, I’d love to find people around Bolton who would be willing to help me.

"Without this help, I am going nowhere.

" I have written to famous people from the North West, I’ve even had a letter of support back from Sir Ian McKellen which was really exciting and now I’m hoping I can appeal to the good nature of people in Bolton.

"I am from a working class family and it's not every day that someone from a background like mine gets into Italia Conti."

School drama teacher Johanna Hassouna-Smith said Alisha had the talent to go "a long way".

She said: "I am so delighted for Alisha, she is talented, driven and determined.

"The Italia Conti Academy has such a good reputation and to be associated with that school is incredible."

To donate towards the fees visit gofundme.com/m5lebg.