St Augustine’s sixth form student Jennifer McGlynn is celebrating success after winning the first ever Senior Bath Young Actor of the Year award.

The 16-year-old from Monkton Farleigh was crowned the winner in the finals last Sunday, after wowing judges with her performance at the Mission Theatre in Bath.

She had to act, recite a poem and memorise prose, all linked to the theme of deception, and then perform in front of an audience, which included the Mayor of Bath.

Jennifer was chosen as one of three finalists for the senior award after being picked from the highest achieving performers in the Mid Somerset Festival in March.

As part of the award she received a trophy which now has pride of place in her dining room.

She also won £100, but has no plans to spend it yet as she wants to “savour the moment”.

She said: “It’s absolutely great, it’s a real honour as it is the first time they have done the award.

“It does mean a lot and I’ve been doing the Mid Somerset Festival since I was six, so the hard work has paid off and it has opened a lot of doors.

“I was very nervous beforehand because I really wanted it, but when I was doing the performance I relaxed because I got so involved and into character, and I know it is a cliché but I got lost in the moment.”

The three adjudicators praised Jennifer’s instinctive and natural performance and commented on how she held the audience in the palm of her hand.

Jennifer’s family are delighted with her achievement.

Proud mum Marie said: “I’m absolutely delighted, she worked very hard.

“She is very passionate about drama and wants to pursue a career in that area.”