TEENAGER Michael Ellis is planing to spin his way to success as a top DJ.

The 17-year-old former Lady Lumley's pupil hopes to land a place on a course at Leeds College of Music which could make him the next big thing in clubland.

Michael, of Hugden Close, Pickering, was one of a group of youngsters who went to London on a trip organised by the Ryedale Detached Youth Project aimed at showing them the pitfalls of heading to the Big Smoke.

"I was thinking of moving to London but now I have seen how difficult it is to get on down there," he said.

"If I had just rushed off I could have ended up on the streets."

So now he is looking to kick-start his career closer to home.

With a couple of gigs at local venues under his belt, he hopes to sign up for the week-long Leeds course which is run in August.

Michael will learn not just the technical skills needed to be a superstar DJ, but how to get ahead in the music business as well.

"I have wanted to do this since I was about 11 and I think I could make a living out of it," said Michael.

"My parents are behind me all the way and think it is a brilliant idea."

Michael needs £240 for the residential course. If you can help, contact the Ryedale Detached Youth Project on (01751) 477707/477056.

Updated: 15:06 Thursday, June 14, 2001