A Yorkshire-based talent agency has played a part in making TV history, representing the first ever actor with Down’s Syndrome to star in Coronation Street.
The Yorkshire Academy of Film and Television Acting (YAFTA)’s Liam Bairstow was announced as a new cast member recently. He joins the soap as Cathy Matthews’ nephew Alex and is the soap’s first actor with Down’s Syndrome.
The 27 year old from Allerton near Bradford is represented by YAFTA and trains and performs with Bradford’s Mind the Gap theatre company, the largest learning disability theatre company in England. YAFTA represents all of the artists from Mind the Gap in addition to offering screen acting classes for children, teenagers and adults across Yorkshire.
YAFTA founder, Charlotte Armitage, was approached by the theatre company to represent their actors because of her personal experience with those with disabilities. She said: “My brother has learning difficulties so I understand the challenges these actors face on a daily basis, even before they pursue careers in the industry.
“Liam is an outstanding actor and we are delighted to to have helped him achieve his dreams. It is a proud moment for YAFTA to have been part of this TV first.”
Liam added: “I’ve wanted to be a TV actor for years and am loving every minute of it. It’s been brilliant to work with the Corrie team.”
Coronation Street producer, Stuart Blackburn, said: “We found a really great actor with a wonderful sense of timing. The cast have been really enjoying working with him.”
Liam has already filmed two episodes and can be seen on the Street this month. YAFTA classes take place weekly in Harrogate, Wetherby, Leeds and Headingley, with a York academy set to open soon. For more information visit
www.yafta.co.uk or call 07512 921 934.
