A local girl is aiming for the top after securing a place at one of the world’s most prestigious ballet schools.

Genni Debney, 11, of Valley Drive, Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, beat off competition from 1,000 other hopefuls to book her spot at the Royal Ballet School.

Now, she will follow in the footsteps of Darcey Bussell after becoming one of only ten ballerinas to be selected for the school.

Genni said: “When I went for the auditions I wasn’t really expecting it. It was just for the experience really, but then I got in.”

The youngster, who started dancing at three and now practices five nights a week, says ballet has made her come out of herself and she will now head off to London in September and board at the school.

“I was quite shy but ballet has given me lots of confidence,” she said.

A place at the Royal Ballet School costs £30,000 a year, and although there are means-tested grants available for students, a large sum still has to be met by Genni’s parents.

Anyone who wants to support Genni should contact Pippa Anderson on (0207) 845 7052 or e-mail pippaa@royal balletschool.co.uk.