A PRESTON actress made her screen debut this week in a new reality television show with a twist.

Melanie Ash is one of six people thrown together in a 'Big Brother' style apartment for the new Channel 4 television series Bedsitcom.

But unbeknown to three of the strooges Melanie, 28, and two other housemates are professional actors following writers' directions to manipulate events in the house.

So when the former Ashton High School pupil came across as a dim wit secretary from 'Up North' the three non-actors had no idea she was pulling the wool over their eyes.

"I kept my name and my accent but played up the northern thing," said Melanie, from Fulwood. "I pretended I was a secretary and wasn't interested in anything that involved using my brain."

Melanie, who studied drama, performing arts and dance at Preston College, said she was delighted to have been offered the part following several screen tests.

This is the actress' first television role after graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University seven years ago. On completing her studies, Melanie worked as a Butlins redcoat before touring in different theatre productions. Find out what happens or whether the actors' guises are discovered in Bedsitcom tonight (Thursday) and next week Monday to Thursday at 10.40pm.