They're just your average group of 17-year-olds from Bristol. The gang is led by Tony, the best-looking, most-popular kid in town. He's always up for a laugh but always at someone else's expense. And then there's his poor best mate, Sid, who is forever lusting after Tony's gorgeous girlfriend while Tony plays him like a fool. But Sid will get the girl of his dreams, eventually - just not the girl he thinks.

Tony's girlfriend Michelle - a.k.a. "Nips" (don't ask) - is drop-dead gorgeous with a quick wit that keeps everyone on their toes. Except Tony, that is - he runs rings around her. And she knows it.

Chris is the class clown; he'll do anything (or anyone) if it's good for a laugh. But nothing gets him going quite like his psychology teacher, Angie. And there's Jal, who is hands down the most talented classical clarinet player in the whole UK. No joke. She's bright as hell, and nothing gets past her. Especially the way Tony treats her best mate, Michelle.

Maxxie is your everyday blond twink. He's magic on his feet and a whiz with his hands. He can have any boy he wants - and he wants them all. His partner-in-crime is Anwar, a "practicing" Muslim who doesn't let the teachings of the Koran get in the way of his less spiritually-inclined pursuits.

Everyone loves the ethereal Cassie, who is completely bonkers. But magic with it. She's a self-harming anorexic with zero self-esteem and a heart of gold. And we can't forget Tony's mysterious little sister, Effy, who keeps her mouth shut but gets up to more than you'd care to imagine. Together, these troublesome teens grab life by the balls and then give it a good twirl...

Skins was created by Bryan Elsley and Jamie Brittain.