SIX budding young performers are being given the chance of a leg-up on to the stage, thanks to a special bursary and locals are urged to apply before the closing date of May 2.

Sophie' s Silver Lining Fund was set up in memory of teenager Sophie Large who lived near Banbury and who was killed in a car accident in February 1998, aged just 19.

Sophie was a gifted singer and actor and had herself encountered the financial barriers many face in choosing to pursue a career in performing.

Her family started the fund after she died, specifically to help out other youngsters seeking similar training. Dame Judi Dench has become the Fund's Patron.

For a week from August 4-8, Chipping Norton Theatre holds its Drama Summer Scheme based in the town as well as in Banbury and Witney. Students will work with an experienced leader to develop their drama skills and work towards a performance at The Theatre on the last night.

The cost is £45 for a usual place but the bursary will pay the fees of six applicants who have difficulty affording it and also give them £20 towards travelling and expenses.

To apply, youngsters must produce:

l A letter explaining why they want to attend and would not be able to take part without the bursary (to include contact name, address and telephone number).

l A reference from a teacher/family friend to support the application.

l Signed consent from a parent or guardian.

Letters should be sent to Jo Cox, Community and Education Officer, The Theatre, 2 Spring Street, Chipping Norton, Oxon, OX7 5NL. Closing date is Friday, May 2 and successful applicants will be notified by May 12.

For more information about Sophie's Silver Lining Fund, visit www.silverlining.org.uk and for more information about the summer school, contact The Theatre on 01608 642350 or at www.chippingnortontheatre.co.uk.