A YOUNG graduate is bringing a flavour of the North-East to 11 million visitors from around the globe, in her role as a cultural representative at Walt Disney World Florida.

Melissa Banks, from North Shields, graduated in performing arts from Sunderland University in July, triumphed over thousands of other applicants to land the dream role.

The 21-year-old was chosen after being asked to bring something to her interview which would showcase where she was from. After producing a bottle of Newcastle Brown Ale to lighten the mood, Melissa told the story of her town’s past as a shipyard.

She told the tale of Wooden Dollies, which were statues that local sailors would chip a piece from for luck. Melissa felt the story, which dates back to 1814, was one that appealed to all ages.

After applying and interviewing in February while still a student, Melissa was the first person out of thousands to receive a start date. Others who applied at the same time will start later in the year, when Melissa will be responsible for training them.

Melissa broke down when she received the news and could barely tell her parents. She went to Florida last month and is revelling in her role, as she represents the region at the Epcot Theme Park in Walt Disney World.

She said: “I went to my interviews and used all the things I had learnt about auditions at university; I was confident and had done all of the research on questions they might ask. When I got the email I couldn't even speak, I just cried and cried.”

The role sees Melissa sharing North-East culture with thousands of visitors and living on site. The position will run for the next year, with the option of an extra three months.