A BURY actress whose credits include Coronation Street, Heartbeat and Prime Suspect is going back to school to bring live theatre into the classroom.

Vanessa Peers has teamed up with actress friend Nicola Markham to form their own In 2 Act Theatre Company which is touring schools in the north west with plays specifically targeted at children.

Both have extensive acting experience and have performed in the West End, repertoire, film and television.

After many years spent outside Bury to further her acting career, 34-year-old Vanessa has returned to her roots to launch the theatre company with Rawtenstall-based Nicola (36). They met while studying at London's Mountview Theatre School between 1989-91 and became firm friends.

Vanessa, a former Derby High School pupil, cut her teeth on the stage at a young age when she joined the Bury-based Anne Dutt's Theatre World. She also trod the boards with the Derby Players before going on to carve herself a full-time career in acting.

"A year ago, I appeared in Coronation Street, playing Cilla's best friend, the wonderfully-named Gaynor Slack. I've also had parts in Prime Suspect, Heartbeat and other shows," she said.

About In 2 Act, Vanessa explained: "Nicky lived down south for quite a while and I moved back to Bury. She ended up moving to Rawtenstall and we saw a lot more of each other. She got involved in teacher training in the meantime and has an educational background."

Both still fulfil acting roles outside of their theatre company commitments. In 2 Act's objective is to use theatre as a teaching and learning tool to explore certain themes which, in particular, affect the lives of children.

To date, In 2 Act has toured schools with three productions, all of which have been written by Nicola. A Special Lesson for Billy tackles school bullying while Cut, Thread and Thrum is a musical celebration of Victorian life. Their latest play, Watt No Energy, is aimed at instilling energy efficiency awareness in pupils.

At present, both are developing and writing for a teenage pregnancy workshop which is scheduled to begin touring schools within six weeks. And looking to the end of the year, In 2 Act will perform their Sinbad the Sailor pantomime in December and January.

Vanessa added: "It's very rewarding to bring these plays to children. Some haven't had any exposure to live theatre before. Covering such sensitive issues as bullying and energy efficiency will hopefully allow the message to come through."

Follow-up booklets enable pupils to develop their understanding of the issues raised within the plays. Performances usually last 45 minutes and include an after-show discussion between actors and pupils.

Any school or organisation in the Bury area wanting more information on plays and performances should ring Vanessa or Nicola on 01706 213368.