A group of budding actors have set up their own production company to help make their dreams come true.

But while most entrepreneurs are getting to grips with business plans and profit margins, the brains behind this operation have not even sat their GCSEs yet.

The production company, called Purple Turtle Studios, is being run by a small group of teenagers.

The youngsters, most of whom attend Hove Park School in West Blatchington, have already made two films and are well on the way to completing their third.

Their aim is to secure funding to buy more equipment and turn their venture into a vehicle for their talents.

Chris Nunn, 15, of Buckingham Road, Brighton, was among the five youngsters who founded the group in June.

He said: "We are not just a bunch of kids running around with a video camera. We are passionate about all aspects of film and acting and hope Purple Turtle marks the beginning of a future for us in the field."

The youngsters are all members of New Venture Youth Theatre and have aspirations to become actors, writers and film producers.

Purple Turtle Studios was born after five of the members completed work experience with MarginalEyes Community Films in June.

Using three analogue cameras borrowed from their parents, they wrote, starred in, filmed and edited their own short horror film called Shadow Play.

Proud of their end product, they decided to continue their film making after the work experience ended and made a horror spoof about a killer stuffed chipmunk called Teddy Scare.

Another seven members from New Venture were drafted in to help out.

Among them was 17-year-old Dan Everson, who attends Varndean Sixth Form College in Surrenden Road, Brighton and was asked to help with filming.

He said: "We only had very basic equipment, but some times that can be an advantage. I used the camera like in the Blair Witch Project, which made the film look more realistic and personal. It was great fun."

Purple Turtle Studios is looking for funding to help buy better equipment, but is having difficulty because all its members are under 18.

Chris said: "We have applied for money from the National Lottery, but our bid was rejected. Now we are looking at other options. But no matter what happens, we will not give up what we are doing."

Chris's parents are backing the venture and say there is no reason it will not be a success.

His dad Philip Nunn, 45, said: "Chris has his whole career plan mapped out already. He is determined to make it.

"I am amazed by the way he has got this group together - it is a real achievement.

"We are under no illusions about how hard it is to make it in show business, but Chris really has the conviction to make it happen."