AN aspiring Hunt End actor has clinched a place at a top American drama academy.

Chris Barley, from Claverdon Close, has been offered a place at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York - the training ground of actors including Danny Devito and Grace Kelly.

But the 18 year old is now looking for any generous Redditch companies or individuals to sponsor him and help cover the £30,000 cost of the two-year course.

Chris started acting with the Palace Youth Theatre aged 12. After his GCSEs, the Studley High School pupil studied for a First Level National Diploma in performing arts at Stratford College, then a BTEC National Diploma in musical theatre, the equivalent of an A-level.

He attended an open audition for the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and received a letter offering him a place.

"I was really shocked, it's been a dream since Year 9 to go to America," he said.

"They have 40 auditions overall and only six in England - I think about 5,000 people may have auditioned and there's only 24 places, so I've done quite well."

Chris's course starts in October and he said he thought the total costs could mount up to £30,000 so he is looking for sponsorship or financial help.

He added: "There is no way I will let this opportunity get past me."

To sponsor Chris, email him on chrisbthestar@hotmail.com