A FIERCE rivalry between schools in north and south Oxford is theme of a new Grange Hill-style soap opera being filmed in the city.

Youngstar Productions already has 26 youngsters aged 11 to 20 to star in the as yet unnamed show, but are now looking for another 30 to play pupils at a rival school.

In the soap’s plot, fictional schools Lakeside Academy and Darton High are forced to merge, causing clashes between pupils.

It has been penned by Eastenders writer Sandra Philips, and will be screened online, with producers also hoping to sell it to a TV company.

Filming started on Saturday at South Oxford Community Centre in Lake Street, which will double as Lakeside High.

James Plumb, 11, who attends Sunningwell Primary School, Abingdon, is playing Barry who is described as “the fittest boy in the school, but a bit of a bully”.

He said: “I really like acting and this is really fun. I hope it is going to be really successful and everyone will like it.”

Callum John, 12, from Larkmead School, Abingdon, who plays wannabe gang member Carl, said: “I like the idea because instead of a one-off, it is going to be a running series and so it is more engaging.

“We have more input into what our characters are like, and idea of the school rivalry reminds me so much of things in the Abingdon area.”

And Emily Mussabir, 14, from John Mason School, Abingdon, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing myself on screen. It is going to be pretty hard work, but is really good experience. Everyone is excited about it.”

The actors are able to part-improvise their roles, in order to give the production a more naturalistic feel.

Drama teacher Louisa Hart said: “We’ve done some improvisation and built up the characters.

“It gives them all more confidence, which is really good if they are applying for parts on TV shows or in films.”

The show will tackle hard-hitting issues including teenage pregnancy, gangs and drugs, with professional actors playing teachers.

Filming will take place on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons.