A CHARITY set up in memory of Liam Miller has supported a young performer who has been accepted on a prestigious musical theatre course.

Rosie Riley was presented with £1,000 after gaining a place at the Musical Theatre Academy (MTA) in London.

The 19-year-old, who lives in Thornton-le-Dale, is one of only 22 students to be offered a place on the two-year course.

Rosie, who started dancing when she was four at Kirkham Henry Performing Arts Centre in Malton, said she was extremely grateful for the grant.

“The fees for attending a course of this calibre comes at a price, which is £16,000 a year,” she said.

“My parents and family are offering their unwavering financial support and I am aiming to raise any amount of money to dilute the financial strain.

“I have started raising money through car boots, auctions and have more fundraising ideas for the summer.

“I believe that the MTA offers one of the best musical theatre courses in the UK and combined with my drive, commitment and passion, I will embrace every moment of this course.”

L.I.A.M. (Laughter, Inspiration, Art, Music) was established with the support of Liam’s dad, Pete, brother, Jamie and sister, Natalie, after the 20-year-old died following a stabbing attack in York in July 2015.

Liam, from Terrington, was a former pupil at Malton School and studied music and art at York College before going to university to study graphic design.

L.I.A.M has so far raised more than £40,000, with fundraisers, including a monthly LIAM’s Acoustic Club at Terrington Village Hall.

Ian Hughes, a friend of the family who helped set up the charity, said: “The trustees of LIAM are thrilled and proud to be able to support and help Rosie on her journey into higher education.

“We are convinced that her commitment and hard work at the Kirkham Henry Performing Arts Centre will hold her in great stead in her chosen studies and that she has a great career and future ahead of her.

“This donation would not have been possible without the generosity and help from the Ryedale community, who, together with friends and colleagues of Liam in York and Liverpool, have enabled this charity to become a reality.”

He added: “Our mission is to provide one-off grants to you people entering higher education studying subjects under the banner of ‘The Arts’.

“Our grants are primarily aimed at the purchase of equipment, etc, needed for participation in the chosen course.”

More information about the charity, including how to apply for grants, can be found at doingitforliam.co.uk

If anyone would like to donate to or fundraise for the LIAM charity, email doingitforliam@gmail.com