A BOLTON actor is to follow in the footsteps of a host of Hollywood directors after winning a place at a film school in the United States.

Stephen Lewis, aged 25, has been accepted at the New York Film Academy, where lecturers include Oscar winners who have worked on Superman, Robocop and The Hunt for Red October.

Only 36 people from all over the world are taken on at the college each year. Movie legends Steven Spielberg, Pierce Brosnan and Luc Besson have all enrolled their children there.

Stephen said: "I was told about the college by a friend who works for Miramax in New York. I decided to apply but wasn't sure if I had much of a chance.

"I was given a phone interview and then they told me I'd been accepted. I was ecstatic because I will learn all aspects of film making such as directing, editing and cinematography.

"The course will be good for making contacts as many of the lecturers are big names. There is also a large leaving party which is attended by many top people in the industry."

The academy opened in 1990, and one previous student is Brett Ratner, who directed Red Dragon and Rush Hour, and still teaches at the school.

Stephen, of Waterslea Drive, Heaton, is a trained actor who has appeared in Coronation Street, Linda Green, Clocking Off and City Central, he also has a masters degree in script-writing.

He starts the one year course in New York next September. He will ultimately be judged on six short films, a music video and a final 20 minute picture.

He added: "It's a bit of a career change but when I have been acting in front of the camera I have been fascinated by what goes on behind the scenes. I also believe television and film are more of a medium for directing than for acting. I'm hoping my progress will be speeded up by learning from the best in the business." Stephen is looking for help from anyone who would be able to help fund his studies. If you are interested, call 01204 844578.