Aimee is leading the Preston branch of the international acting academy

A new acting and drama studio has begun operating in Penwortham.

The Pauline Quirke Academy is being led by a Preston graduate.

24-year-old Aimee Membery studied acting at the University of Central Lancashire and is now leading the first North West branch of the Birds of a Feather star’s academy.

Aimee said: “I’m thrilled to have this job only a couple of years after leaving university and it’s great that Pauline Quirke was willing to give me a chance.

“The Preston PQA has really taken off and I’ve seen some talented youngsters come through the door already.”

The Academy offers weekly performing arts classes to youngsters aged 4 to 18 years.

Kids enjoying a class at the Academy

Aimee graduated in 2011 and has worked as a travel agent and did some freelance work before being picked to lead Pauline Quirke’s Academy.

She has already recruited two fellow UCLan gradates to work with her, Samantha Edwards and Edward Rastelli-Lewis.

She said: “I was keen to tap into local talent and am building a team of dedicated professionals to teach at the academy.

“UCLan encourages students use the strengths of others to make themselves a better person and this attitude has enabled me to use contacts I gained at university to develop and grow my own business.”

The Academy operates every Saturday morning at Penwortham Priory High School.