THREE senior pupils from Abbey Gate College are celebrating getting into this year’s National Youth Theatre.

Maddie Thomas from Year 10 and Will Stuart and Theo Spofforth of Year 11, fought off competition from thousands of youngsters to gain a place in the 2013 production.

Only 500 places as actors, designers and technicians were offered, and the chosen groups will spend time during the summer in London preparing for a performance at the renowned National Theatre.

The college has a long-standing history with the organisation - former pupil and head boy Matthew Heath performed with the company between 2009 and 2011 and current upper sixth pupil Katie Tighe is returning for her second year as a costume designer.

Famous National Youth Theatre alumni include Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Richard Wilson and Doctor Who’s Matt Smith.