BUDDING actor Ben Kempton is aiming for the West End after securing a place performing in the prestigious Dick Whittington pantomime at the Bristol Hippodrome.

The talented 13-year-old Burnham student will be a dancer and singer all over Christmas and New Year in the popular panto.

It is a massive achievement for Ben who started performing aged three and who is currently doing GCSEs in dance, music and drama at King Alfred’s School.

He enjoys ballet, tap dancing, West End dance, modern dance, drama and singing.

Despite being a talented footballer, Ben had to choose to focus on his passion for performing arts and has won a scholarship to the Bristol School of Dance, which is managed by John Redgrave.

He is now aiming to fulfil his dream of performing the Billy Elliot musical or Les Miserable in the West End.

Ben said: “I am so happy to be in the Bristol pantomime and can't wait for it.

“This is all I ever want to do.

"My parents and the school have been very encouraging of me.”

At the age of 11, Ben enjoyed a prestigious five month Barbara Speake Stage Scholarship in London.