A TEENAGE actor from Ledbury has made a promising debut on national television.

Thousands of people saw Will Merrick on last night’s opening episode of Skins on E4.

The 17-year-old looks destined to become one of the show’s most popular characters as happy-go-lucky Alo.

Will describes his character as an “optimistic” pothead farmboy who is part of a double act with metal-loving Rich.

He’s also the only main character not to have a sex scene, but that doesn’t stop him from trying and having fun.

Will has plenty of theatre experience but admits his television debut has come earlier than expected.

He described seeing himself on television as “a bit weird”, especially as he’s since returned to college in Cheltenham.

“I thought maybe I would go to drama school and hope for a break so to get this so early is amazing,” said Will.

“I think could Skins could be a great springboard and it has been for lots of people but I’ll just have to wait.”

More in this week’s Hereford Times, out now.