A SUCCESSFUL actor who found his passion for the profession while at school is set to star in one of television's most popular soaps.

Lawrence Robb, a former pupil at St Columba's in Kilmacolm, is gearing up for the opportunity of a lifetime as he joins the cast on Emmerdale.

The 29-year-old will be appearing on the primetime favourite at the end of the month as new character 'Mackenzie' - the brother of farmer Moira Barton, played by fellow Scot Natalie Robb.

Scriptwriters say he will be bringing with him a deep secret from the siblings' past.

Lawrence, whose parents Iain and Claire still live locally, first found his love for acting during a Christmas pantomime at the Duchal Road school when he was just 14-years-old.

From there, he went on to study at the Royal Scottish Academy before moving to London and taking on starring roles on both the stage and screen - including his most recent credit as Matt on Sky's 'I Hate Suzie' directed by Billie Piper.

The soon-to-be Emmerdale star told the Tele: "The character I'm playing is quite naughty and will be causing havoc in the village.

"In real life, I'm the opposite of Mackenzie, so it's incredibly enjoyable for me as an actor to play about with the character.

"I had the script for a while before filming so had a lot of time to think about how I wanted to play him.

"I felt euphoric when I found out I had landed the part."

Lawrence spent his school years enjoying an array of activities and was both a keen rugby player and choirboy.

He feels he has now found his dream job.

Lawrence said: "Acting is arguably one of the most rewarding careers ever, it's potentially the best job in the world.

"Your heart needs to be in it 100 per cent.

"When you do get that call to say you've got the part it is wonderful."