A West End performer is closing the curtain on her showbiz career to teach the stars of the future.

Lucy Gavin is taking over as principal of performing arts school Stagecoach Cheam and Worcester Park in January, after treading the boards in everything from Grease to the Rocky Horror show.

The Thames Ditton resident gave up her acting, singing and dancing career to have children, and now wants to pass on her knowledge to aspiring performers.

She said: “It's a great way of giving something back from my experience.

“I am really excited about it. There are some lovely kids there and they have all got so much enthusiasm.”

She added: “The school caters for children who want to go into the arts but also for those who just want to have fun and build their confidence.

“I hope to build on the school’s success by offer exciting opportunities for the students by bringing in many experienced professionals from me and my husband’s theatrical backgrounds.

“Through both of our worlds we have a lot to offer and know a lot of people.”

Her husband, Kim Gavin, is the creative director and choreographer for pop band TakeThat, so Mrs Gavin - who uses her maiden name of Moorby professionally – is also hoping to get circus performers from their latest tour to give a masterclass to students.

She is also in the process of securing some big name guest teachers she thinks the children will be excited about.

Although Mrs Gavin will not formally take over until January, she is running a “Have A Go Day” on December 11. The school offers early stage classes for children of between four and six and the main school offers classes for children between seven and 18.

Classes will take place at Nonsuch High School for Girls on Friday evenings and Cuddington Community Primary School on Saturdays.

For more information call 0208 224 2442 or visit stagecoach.co.uk/cheam.