A NEW branch of the well-known Paul Nicholas School of Acting is opening in Liverpool tomorrow when former Hollyoaks stars Helen Nobel and Sarah Jayne Dunn are hoping to attract the next generation of soap stars.

The school is based at the Alima Centre, in Sefton Street, and offers youngsters between four and 18 the chance to learn the tricks of the trade for both stage and screen.

Paul Nicholas is best remembered – perhaps – for his award-winning role as Vince Pinner in the long running BBC situation comedy Just Good Friends, and he is still a regular television face.

"There are thousands of talented youngsters who simply don’t get the chance to shine because they live outside London, so I have established a nationwide franchise of theatre schools that will help them," he said.

"I believe acting is a brilliant way to give youngsters the confidence and other skills needed to get by in life.

"And I am particularly pleased to open a school in the heart of Liverpool, particularly as next year it will be Capital of Culture."

"It is a place of life and a huge variety of entertainment, art and culture. And all my schools are priced so that they are accessible to everyone, not just the rich and famous," he added.

Helen – who played Abby Davies in Holly- oaks – and Sarah (Mandy Richardson) have teamed up with Graham Tudor, a former star of Joseph and The Amazing Dreamcoat to offer their considerable talents as coaches and teachers in the new school.

"We want to pass on our expertise to the future generations of acting talent we are convinced exists in Liverpool and Merseyside," said Helen.

THE Paul Nicholas School of Acting launches tomorrow: on Tuesday September 4th and there will be an Open Day on September 15th. Details from: 0151 729 0539 or check the website: www.pnsa.co.uk