EMMERDALE actress Emma Atkins, alias Charity Tate, will be offering advice on how to reach the top when she launches a media festival at Accrington and Rossendale College.

Fans of all things media related will be in for a treat when the event is officially launched on Tuesday by the ITV soap stunner.

The blonde actress will be on hand on Tuesday to offer wannabe actors and actresses advice at the three-day event which runs until Friday, May 9.

The event, at the Rawtenstall site, Haslingden Road, will see a host of well known personalities attend the college.

A series of events aimed at giving support to all interested in the media have been arranged for the festival.

Alongside the well known Emmerdale star, ex-Granada news presenter Hazel Barret will advise people on life as a newscaster.

The Media Festival is part of a wider initiative to make prospective students aware of the diverse range of media choices and state of the art facilities available on the BTEC National Diploma in Media Production and the BA (Hons) Degree in Broadcasting, Film and Communication.

Tutors will be available throughout the week to talk to anyone who would like to know more about a career in television, film, radio, marketing, advertising or journalism.

Various companies will also be exhibiting throughout the festival. These include JVC, Holden's IMAC Supplies and various radio stations. Representatives from these companies will also be offering advice along with information seminars.

Ethnic craft stalls will be situated in the common room throughout the event.

Gordon Coates, Accrington and Rossendale College spokesman, said: "We have loads on offer for people wanting to learn more about the world of media.

"And the celebrities will help add a bit of excitement to the festival so I would encourage anybody interested in media to come along."

Students and the public are also invited to take a look at the college's new state of the art facilities while joining in the events.