ACTRESS Gillian Taylforth has offered her support to a Dorset drama school.

The Eastenders star, who is best-known for playing Kathy Beale, and her sister Kim, also an actress, have become patrons at Pure Drama, which offers classes across Southbourne and Christchurch for children aged three to 18.

As youngsters, Gillian and Kim attended north London-based drama group Anna Scher Theatre School, alongside Pauline Quirke, Linda Robson, and Martin and Gary Kemp.

Kim is best known for her roles on London Burning; Family affairs and Hollyoaks, while Gillian graces in Eastenders and is also known for roles in Hollyoaks, ITV's Footballers' Wives and The Bill. She has also presented on ITV's Loose Women and appeared as a celebrity contestant on Strictly Come Dancing in 2008.

Pure Drama principal Lizzie Frances, who worked alongside the Taylforths in the UK tour of the hit musical Girls Night, said: “They were such wonderful and professional actresses to work alongside and I look upon my time with them, both on and off stage, very fondly.

"I loved hearing their stories about their time at The Anna Scher Theatre School and it was from this that inspired me to offer similar classes in Bournemouth. So, I set up Pure Drama.”

Kim and Gillian said: "Drama lessons for children are so important. Whether for a budding actor or simply to build confidence. Lizzie and her team at Pure Drama have boundless energy for the arts. Her drama classes are professional, personal and fun. We loved working alongside Lizzie and we guarantee that your child will too. We are proud patrons of Pure Drama.”