A performing arts academy run by a former EastEnders star is opening its second base in Gravesend to cope with demand from the town’s creative youngsters.

Centre Stage Theatre Academy will be launching classes at St George’s School in Meadow Road because their classes at the Woodville are full.

More than 120 students go to the Woodville every Monday and founder Frankie Fitzgerald cannot believe how much they have grown.

He said: “We started with just 15 kids and over the last four years it has just exploded. There are so many children in Gravesend with a passion and the talent for performing. We get calls daily about classes, so we knew we had to open another night.”

The actor is best known for his role in EastEnders as Dot’s grandson Ashley and can most recently be seen alongside Tom Hardy in gangster film Legend.

He added: “I have the best job in the world. One day I’m acting, the next I am passing on that experience and knowledge to the next generation of performers. It’s so rewarding to see these kids learn and grow in confidence.”

Bethany Bright-Sedge, 13, goes to St George’s school and Centre Stage’s classes at the Woodville. She said: “I love Centre Stage. The teachers have really helped me develop not just my dance and drama skills but my confidence. We are all really close. It’s like one big family. I can’t wait until classes open at my school – I’m definitely going on both nights.”

Wednesday nights at St George’s will be open to all children aged seven to 18 years. Classes will then run weekly between 5.30pm and 8.30pm.

Discounts are available to pupils of St George’s School.

Visit www.centrestagetheatreacademy.com or call 07946 890614.