Mayor to attend acting school

Martin Winter was elected in 2001

The Mayor of Doncaster is taking lessons at acting school to help improve his media image.

Martin Winter will attend the world-famous Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) to learn how to communicate to voters.

Mr Winter will also be shown how to polish-up his voice projection and presentation skills at a cost to the taxpayer of £464.

The course, entitled Improving Your Communication, is run once a month for senior councillors.

William Bradshaw, of Doncaster Council, said it is essential the mayor feels confident in the media spotlight.

A confident public presenter is no bad thing Andrew Lewis, RADA

He said: "The mayor, as the leading ambassador for Doncaster, is regularly asked to take part in television and radio interviews.

"It is essential that he feels confident and comfortable in this role.

"No matter who you are, everybody needs to update their skills."

The course was booked last year but the mayor has yet to take up his place.

Andrew Lewis, of RADA, said the methods used were those used to train actors.

He said: "A lot of our courses are about trying to increase confidence and looking at the way you hold your posture and your voice.

"A confident public presenter is no bad thing."