I JOINED Stagecoach when I was 15, taking part in its first production. I stayed with them, as many young people do, for several years, appearing in numerous productions.

The nature of Stagecoach's work is the ensemble. Members grow in self-confidence and gain valuable life skills such as working in teams, leading others and individual and collective responsibility for a project. These skills are discovered in a creative and exciting environment bolstered by tremendous support from parents.

On leaving school, I took a gap year teaching English in the Czech Republic and found the qualities Stagecoach had instilled in me were vital in making my trip a success. I was confident, enthusiastic, energetic and responsible.

Ultimately I decided that I wanted to act professionally. I have found the skills that I learned in Stagecoach invaluable through both my training and my career so far. Self-discipline and self-motivation are vital attributes for actors and both are found in abundance at Stagecoach.

Young people take pride in their work with Stagecoach and gain a great sense of personal achievement during rehearsals and performances. They set goals and ambitions and discover the tools they need to achieve those targets. The skills they learn will be essential in pursuing a career or course of study. Stagecoach helps to make well-rounded individuals who contribute to their communities.

I therefore feel that the council's funding of this valuable asset should be reconsidered.

Daniel Weyman,

Arlington Park Mansions,

Sutton Lane North, London.

Updated: 11:32 Wednesday, January 11, 2006