HAVE you ever had a group of friends who were so close that they became family?

Well, in 2008, I joined a family that I can never forget - a family who helped me turn something I loved into something I can't live without.

Before I joined BATS Next Gen, I was overweight and being bullied at secondary school. I couldn't find a place where I could belonged. A friend, Jade Hollingshead, who knew about my love of theatre, told me about a junior theatre company called BATS Next Gen. She was already a member and had loved every second of it, so after some convincing, I headed to the workshops.

When I first arrived, I was incredibly nervous, but I was shocked at how easily I got along with everyone, which boosted my confidence immensely. After successfully auditioning and gaining a lead role, I performed in Dick Whittington that December.

It didn't take long for me to realise I couldn't bear being away from everyone and that I needed more than just one show. So I successfully auditioned for a chorus role in Hairspray, and then I earned a lead role in a musical written specifically for the company called Vampires from Space. In both shows I sweated, I cried, I persevered and I had some of the greatest moments of my life.

Last year was a memorable one for me. It was announced in early 2011 that we would be performing Our House, the Madness Musical. When I auditioned, our director Ian 'Spud' Smith chose me to take on the role of The Dad, which would turn out to be my favourite part.

The great thing about this show was not only did it help me become a better performer, but I gained new friends who I treasure with all my heart. Our House also received incredible reviews and I was on an all-time high.

This year, BATS Next Gen have chosen to do RENT School Edition, one of my personal favourite musicals. I thought that it was the perfect way for me to end my time with BATS Next Gen as soon I will be turning eighteen and I will have to leave.

I will always remember my time at BATS Next Gen as some of the greatest moments in the last five years of my life. I can't wait to perform - but I don't want to leave.

RENT School Edition will be performed from February 21 to 23 in Queen Mary's Hall, QMC. Tickets are available online at batsnextgen.co.uk or telephone 07754 068545.