MERSEYSIDE actor David Morrissey went back to his roots to inspire children to take up drama.

The Kensington-born star of stage and screen, who is currently appearing in Macbeth at the Everyman, visited Huyton Arts and Sports Centre for Learning, to speak to 40 budding actors.

It was a welcome return for Morrissey, 46, who was educated not far away at St Margaret Mary’s Infants, Juniors and Seniors, in Huyton.

With two decades of acting excellence under his belt, including TV roles in Willy Russell’s One Summer, Red Riding and State Of Play, and Hollywood roles in Captain Correlli’s Mandolin and The Other Boleyn Girl, he is well placed to give advice.

The father-of- three said: “This was a great opportunity to come and talk to students who have an interest and passion in performing arts. Hopefully, my experiences will inspire them to continue to follow their chosen path in the performing arts.”

Cllr Graham Wright, cabinet member for children at Knowsley council, added: “I was pleased to note the visit of such an esteemed actor.

“Students were engaged from the outset and listened intently to what he had to say, which I hope will help them with their future career choices.”

The pupils also took part in a “page to stage” workshop and saw the actor tread the boards in Macbeth with co-star Julia Ford.