A RISING star from Kendal who started performing arts when she was around nine is now touring the country.

Holly Lovelady began performing arts at Stagecoach in Kendal then taught herself to play and write her own songs on a £50 piano her mum bought her when she was fourteen.

During her time with Stagecoach Holly was given incredible opportunities to act and sing in musicals in theatres across the country.

Holly found an apprenticeship in a recording studio which allowed her to learn a lot about the music industry as she continued to build her acting career.

She took all her drama LAMDA exams, which helped in Holly’s development on stage, and led to her gaining roles in some great shows and films.

Thanks to Holly’s side hobby as a skateboarder she was able to take part in a Pepsi TV advert with Liverpool footballer Mo Salah.

After finding success in such a competitive industry, Holly created her own stage and screen production company called Learn My Lines Productions.

Holly said: “I was really shy at first but eventually I grew to love taking part. I would love to give back to the community and offer opportunities to those who want to be a part of the industry. I’m here to show that with hard work, kindness and determination your goals are obtainable.

“I decided to opt out of the normal drama school route in order to become a professional actress. I didn’t want to live miles away from my family for three years, it just wasn’t for me. Instead I began to focus more on my music, releasing more songs, holding my own concerts and finding auditions myself.

“I need to thank AnnMarie White my principal at Stagecoach in Kendal and my brilliant London agent, Richard. We make a great team. He’s lovely."

At the moment Holly is rehearsing for her Ireland tour which starts in Dublin on April 6. All the ticket sales are going to local dementia charities or care homes in memory of Holly’s grandparents.

In September, Holly will be working with the film producer Nick Barton, who is well known for his work on Calendar Girls, Kinky Boots and Swallows & Amazons.

Holly is soon premiering at the Edinburgh Fringe in Topless - The one woman Musical by Miles Tredinnick, and plans to tour her show around Kendal and the North later in the year.

Holly is well known for her YouTube channel, where she shares her music, singing originals and covers.

Last month she released her rendition of 'Year of the cat', which has more than 30,000 views.