The bright lights of the West End have left a Welland training company searching for new talent.

Drama-based training company, Nelson Training has lost one of its key actors thanks to a successful audition in the West End.

Bob Traynor, from Hereford, will be leaving the company in February to take a principal role in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the London Palladium in in March.

"I'm thrilled to be given the role," said Mr Traynor. "I've been trying to get into the West End for a while. I'm not sure exactly which part I'll be playing but it's one of the four inventors. I'm also understudy for Boris the Spy."

Mr Traynor is no stranger to the stage, having performed in pantomimes around the country for several years. He is currently performing alongside Kevin Kennedy, better known as Coronation Street's Curly Watts, in Aladdin at Brighton.

He has worked with Nelson Training for two years. Managing director Viv Nelson said: "He'll be missed greatly but we are now hunting for his replacement."

Nelson provides training for companies in Britain and abroad. It uses 'interactive drama', in which delegates 'direct' their own scenes, depicting work-based problems.

It is looking for experienced local actors aged over 30 years, with their own transport. For more details, ring 01684 311287.