HIS career has gone from strength to strength – and now Tommy Jessop has a leading role in one of the BBC's most popular shows.

The 36-year-old from Winchester is starring as Terry Boyle in the drama series Line of Duty.

Tommy had appeared in the show previously, but his character has returned for season 6, taking centre stage in a developing plot.

Speaking to the Chronicle, he said: "It was truly wicked and an honour to be part of Line of Duty."

When the actor, who has down syndrome, was asked if he thought he would ever make it this far, he responded: "Yes, I’ve been working towards the next step. This year as a member of BAFTA Elevate has been brilliant.

"Acting is a great passion of mine. I hope to go even further.

"The whole cast and crew are all my favourite people to work with. The scenes were intense but I like that and we had fun between them."

Tommy said both his brother and Brad Pitt are his inspiration.

"Well, let’s just say to all the producers and directors out there, I’m up for any role you can throw at me," he added.

Tommy became the first Down’s Syndrome actor to appear in a BBC primetime drama; Coming Down The Mountain in 2007.

His mum Jane Jessop founded Blue Apple Theatre in Winchester, which is a theatre company for people with learning disabilities.

Actor Tommy has recently launched his own website: www.tommy-jessop.com.