THE first actor with Down’s syndrome to star in a prime-time BBC drama has been named as a new BAFTA member.

Tommy Jessop, who lives in Winchester, was named in the British Academy of Film and Television Arts’ list for 2019.

BAFTA members form a community of around 8,000 people worldwide working within the film, games and television industries.

They support charitable aims, act as mentors to emerging young talent and take part in the organisation’s Guru Programmes.

Tommy’s acting credits include BBC One’s Coming Down the Mountain, starring alongside Hollywood actor Nicholas Hoult.

His mother, Jane Jessop is the founder of Blue Apple Theatre – a Winchester based company that supports performers with learning disabilities.