ENTERTAINER Wendy Rees is stepping out on her own after health reasons forced her to quit the world of showbiz.

And now she is now passing on the tricks of her trade to those wishing to follow in her footsteps, or just to gain confidence in dealing with other people and in the workplace, through her new venture, Stagecraft.

Wendy (48), who will be running the business from her home in Bolton Road, Bury, said: "Entertaining is something I love. By starting this business, which is quite unusual in the area, it is my way of continuing something I love.

She added: "The skills needed in entertaining are so versatile they can be used in all areas of life. This can be from helping young children who want to act or sing, to helping professionals create a presence when giving seminars or presentations."

An Equity member, Wendy is also a qualified dancer. She started in showbiz at the age of seven. After a break at 14, she started performing again in her 20s at cabaret clubs and holiday parks while running Wendy's Hairstylists in Whittaker Lane, Prestwich. She gave up the salon at the age of 39 for full-time entertainment.

Wendy's courses will cover creating a stage presence, audience communication, movement and choreography, confidence and personality development, all on a one-to-one basis. She said: "The teaching is all geared towards developing confidence in your ability, be it to entertain or in your job." Call Wendy on 761 1789 or 07956 400 509.