Teenage ballerina set for international competition

Ballet has been a "big part" of Rebecca Johnson's life

A teenager from Wiltshire will participate in a prestigious ballet competition.

Rebecca Johnson, 17, from Melksham, is taking part in the Margot Fonteyn International Ballet competition in London from 1-8 September.

She started ballet when she was two years old and said it had been a big part of her life since.

"I’ve always loved movement. It’s freeing and I love working on the artistry and you become the best version of yourself," she said.

Rebecca Johnson started dancing when she was two years old

"When I was little I just loved dancing to music anywhere and everywhere," Rebecca added.

The Fonteyn competition is held at the Royal Academy of Dance in London and will be judged by the likes of Dame Darcy Bussell.

The teenager said she hoped the competition would "create opportunities" for her.

"You never know who’s watching in the audience. The people you meet could be friends for life," she said.

'Hard work'

"I’m very excited and I am very nervous. I’m just trying to stay calm and not let the nerves get to me.

"I go back school the next day after the competition. I’ll just do my typical work doing lessons in the mornings and then dancing in the afternoon."

She said her dream would be to join a classical ballet company.

Rebecca's mum Alison said it had been "a lot of fun and hard work".

"It’s always lovely to watch her dance on stage," Alison added. "Both myself and my husband are really proud of everything she’s achieved. It’s taken a lot of hard work.

"It’s an ongoing journey, but it's an exciting one."