This summer local ballet dancer Ella-Louise Appleby, 18, of New Inn will be representing the UK in the Cecchetti Ballet International Competition in Florence, Italy. This is an amazing achievement for this promising young dancer.

Ella -Louise was formally a pupil of Jacqui Everson at Gemini School of Dance, Griffithstown, and an associate of both Cecchetti Society and the award-winning Ballet Cymru, Newport.

From the age of three Ella has dreamt of being a ballerina. She began ballet classes at the age of four with the Gemini school of dance (Jacqui Everson). At the age of nine she won the Cecchetti Wales & West junior award then in 2013 she won the senior award.

Ella-Louise is currently in her second year of professional training at KS Dance, Warrington, which is one of the most respected dance colleges in the UK.

“I have recently passed my DDI teaching examination and I am currently studying to achieve my DDE teaching qualification, so I can share my experience and knowledge of dance with the next generation,” said Ella-Louise.

“Unfortunately I have been unable to secure any funding to help with my training fees and associated costs. ( i.e. pointe shoes, leotards, tutus, costumes etc.)

“I am looking for financial support to help me through the remaining duration of my training, I have another 18 months left.

“Any support you can give to help me achieve my life long dream of becoming a professional dancer would be greatly appreciated.” To make a donation visit www.gofundme.com/3g7v1dc