AN ACTING prize backed by a top South Bucks celebrity is up for grabs at this year’s celebration of music and drama.

Holby City star and Strictly Come Dancing winner Tom Chambers, who lives in Marlow, will present the ‘Chambers Cup for Acting’ to a standout candidate at the Marlow Festival of Music and Drama in November.

Traditionally a music festival, the 19th annual festival based at Liston Hall has been extended to cover drama, and is looking for budding stars young and old to put themselves forward for the prize.

Tom said: "It gives me great pleasure to be part of Marlow Festival of Music and Drama.

"Festivals like these are so important for children giving them a chance to express their creativity without boundaries and take pride in themselves with the growing confidence it gives you.

"I'm thrilled and honoured to be presenting a cup for Acting to the Marlow Festival of Music and Drama.

"There is no better life training than being onstage in front of others. I hope teachers and parents encourage children of any ability to take part in our local Festival."

Other headline prize donations come from Wycombe Swan Theatre, which is presenting a Group Acting gong.

And Marlow FM has sponsored a trophy for the Most Promising Performer, promising a live slot on air for the winner.

The Drama section is being run by RADA trained and BAFTA award winning actress Jane Trainer and GSA Trained, West End and TV actress Amber Edlin.

Amber said: "‘We are thrilled that such a talented and respected actor as Tom Chambers and other amazing local companies have been so generous in donating awards to our new festival section. "We are looking forward to welcoming our local actors to the stage in November."

The festival was established in 1995 as a clebration of music in the town.

As well as the new speech and drama section, the festival features musical performances including piano, vocal solo, vocal ensemble, choirs, strings, brass, woodwind, percussion, and orchestras.

It takes place from November 8 to 21. Entry is now open, with a paper entry deadline of September 24 and October 1 for online registration.

For further information go to www.marlowmusicfestival.co.uk