TWO Hadleigh youngsters are packing their packs today after being selected for the National Youth Theatre in London.Reice Godfrey and Bethany Girling auditioned for the company last year and will begin a two-week workshop next week.

TWO Hadleigh youngsters are packing their packs today after being selected for the National Youth Theatre in London.

Reice Godfrey and Bethany Girling auditioned for the company last year and will begin a two-week workshop next week.

The youngsters who are both students at Hadleigh High School are celebrating their success with head of drama Michael Quinn.

He said: "I am delighted because there were 4,000 people who went for the auditions.

"It is extremely rare to accept anyone on their first audition and even more rare to have two people from the same school, especially as it isn't a drama school."

The students have both had experience of drama, working together at the Young Wolsey.

Bethany Girling, who is 14 said: "I've been in school plays and performed at the Regent.

"I'm looking forward to going but am a bit apprehensive about travelling about in London."

The youngsters had to perform two pieces to be selected for the residential course one of which was a Shakespeare piece. This was followed by an interview.

Fifteen-year-old Reice added: "It was really nerve racking and I wasn't expecting to get picked. I'm not sure what to expect at the moment."

The school has a strong tradition of drama with most performances selling out.

It is currently trying to raise funds for a new auditorium. Anyone who may be able to help should contact the school on 01473 823496.