A PORTISHEAD youngster makes her TV debut next month when the edgy drama Skins returns to our screens.

A PORTISHEAD youngster makes her TV debut next month when the edgy drama Skins returns to our screens.

Bernadette Moor, aged nine, who is a pupil at the Cheryl Rowlands School of Drama in the town, first auditioned for a part in the television programme, Mistresses, at the beginning of 2007.

She wasn't successful on that occasion but was recalled for a speaking part in Skins in the summer and not only did she get the part, but writers adjusted the script so that she could play a young person of her own name.

Skins is a drama series about the antics of 17 and 18 year olds, it features troubled teens and their parents living in Britain and is aimed at an audience of young adults, it is not exactly suitable viewing for nine year olds.

Bernadette's father, Gregory, said: "Bernadette thoroughly enjoyed filming Skins and I was impressed how sensitive the production team were. They ensured everything the younger children were involved in was suitable for their age group.

"I have explained to Bernadette that she will not be able to watch the whole programme in which she appears but we will record it and allow her to watch the scenes she is in."

Bernadette said: "I have always wanted to be an actress and this was a brilliant opportunity. I loved every minute and everyone was really nice to me."

Skins premiered on E4 in January 2007 and ran on Channel 4 until October. The new series begins on Channel 4 in February.

Photo: Bernadette Moor (front) with Drama School Principal Cheryl Rowlands