OXTON actor Jack Lowden believes the Borders is among the best places in the world for becoming an actor.

The 29-year-old Scottish BAFTA winner has already starred in major films such as Mary Queen of Scots, Dunkirk and Tommy’s Honour.

And he’s also appeared in hit television productions like The Tunnel, The Long Song, My Family and War & Peace.

Fresh from filming in Ireland, Jack returned to his homeland last weekend for the Borders Book Festival.

And he had some encouraging words for any budding actors looking to follow in his footsteps.

Jack told us: “Without doubt the biggest influences on me becoming an actor were all the opportunities handed to me at Earlston High School – a free state school.

“It’s a fallacy sometimes that you need a lot of money to pursue a career as an actor, while there is an element of truth in that, there are things you can do that don't cost a lot of money.

“There are few places better for just going out and acting than in the Borders. Whether it’s school or the amateur dramatic groups, there are plenty opportunities for just going out and acting.

“My advice is don’t be a snob, go out there and act wherever you get the opportunity to act.

“I’ve been very fortunate that I’ve been chosen for some major acting roles, but the most fun I’ve ever had was on the stage with the local amateur dramatics groups here in the Borders.

“If anyone wants to become and actor – there’s nothing stopping them if they live here.”

While studying at Earlston High, Jack also attended the Scottish Youth Theatre and summer schools at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, and by the age of 12 had made his debut on the King’s Theatre stage in Edinburgh.

He was rewarded with lead roles both at Earlston High – as Buddy Holly – and also in the Galashiels Amateur Operatic Society performance of The Boyfriend as his acting progressed.

Jack graduated from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow at the age of 21.

And soon the offers of stage and screen roles began to roll in.

He added: “It’s a very hard profession but I’ve been lucky with the choices I’ve made.

“I’m hugely appreciative of the opportunities I’ve been given along the way.

“If you work hard you get there.”

Jack’s latest chapter has involved the creation of his own production company, Reiver Pictures, named after the notorious Borders raiding families.

He added: “The company needed a name and I’ve been obsessed with the Reivers since I was a kid.

“We’ve just finished filming our first project in Ireland.

“Acting is fun but I’ve always wanted to go into the production side of things and I’d love to be back making films in Scotland with the company.”