RISING star Ella Smith has been forced to choose between her love of singing and of acting after winning a place with two national youth organisations.

Ella, 17, a pupil at St Laurence School in Bradford on Avon, was one of 180 youngsters, picked from 4,000 applications, to join the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain.

But in accepting her place, the talented A-level student has had to turn down the opportunity to sing in a BBC Prom Concert at the Royal Albert Hall with the National Youth Choir because the groups' rehearsals and training clash.

Ella, who is studying music, theatre studies, French and AS level maths, said: I am totally chuffed and really amazed with both. I have done a lot of things but this has topped them all.

I have decided to join the youth theatre and will stay with them until I am 21. It means I get to work with all the top people.

One of my friends from the Musical Youth Theatre Company has also got in, which is brilliant.

Ella, who also plays the flute, is now working hard to raise the £600 she needs for the youth theatre's course in London. She plans to 'sing for her supper' by singing at weddings, parties, concerts and other events, and anyone interested in booking her can call (01225) 862505.

Her previous experience includes performing Rule Britannia in front of thousands at Stourhead. She was also one of the first girl choristers at Salisbury Cathedral.

Nicholas Sorensen, headteacher at St Laurence School, said: Ella is an extraordinarily talented singer, actor and instrumentalist. Her all-round talent is quite exceptional and I am delighted that she has received national recognition in this way.

Her success will encourage other students to achieve at the highest level.