NORTH YORKSHIRE young people will be working alongside some of the country's leading actors when they join the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) for two touring productions.

The two youngsters have been chosen to star in the productions when they arrive at Northallerton next month.

The company, based at Stratford-upon-Avon, is bringing The Merry Wives Of Windsor and Coriolanus to Hambleton Leisure Centre from February 4 to 8.

Nick Sellars, 13, from Appleton Wiske, near Northallerton, Elliot Francis, 15, from Ingleby Barwick, won the places along with Saffron Johnson and Brett Upton, from Darlington, and Jonathan Harrison, from Bishop Auckland, after a series of auditions.

They will link up with the RSC for two days before opening night for intensive rehearsals.

Leisure services officer Kate Staines said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for these budding stars.

"They are very excited and busy gearing themselves up for the roles.

"It will be intensive and very hard work, but the chance of a lifetime. Who knows - in years to come we may be welcoming them back here as stars of the RSC."

Tickets for Coriolanus can still be booked by phoning 01609 777070. The Merry Wives Of Windsor is sold out.

Updated: 11:22 Monday, January 27, 2003