Watching ballet hero Billy Elliot glide into the air to the orchestral crescendo of Swan Lake has inspired a Lower Hardres teen to swap hockey sticks for ballet shoes.

George Leatherby says the final scene of the hit film encouraged him to sign up to St Dunstans' school Dance Warehouse to fulfil his dream of becoming a star.

Now the 15-year-old has inched closer to his dream after being awarded a place at the world-famous Royal Ballet School in London's Covent Garden and says the film and hard work have driven him to succeed.

"I would love to appear in Swan Lake - I watched Billy Elliot and it was the final scene where you hear the orchestra and he appears from the side with his family in the crowd that affected me. I like most games and am an advocate of team sports. I enjoy hockey and football but when I dance afterwards I just feel exhilarated."

As in the film, the St Edmund's pupil also has a mentor, teacher Kate Marquis - known as Miss Katie - who has constantly inspired and encouraged all her pupils to the point where all the young dancers have great camaraderie.

"We all want each other to do well in shows and in auditions," George said.

Miss Katie is a former ballet dancer and trained on the Royal Ballet School's Teachers' Course. After graduating in July 2000 she toured with European Ballet, performing as a soloist in their productions of Sleeping Beauty and Coppélia.

Proud dad Stuart says his son's achievement is even more special, as he was approached after a two-week spring intensive course as opposed to a conventional audition.

He said: "George auditioned when he was 11 and was unsuccessful. In April, we went to London for the course and afterwards a teacher offered him a place at the school. It's unusual as he is older than most children who gain a place."

I couldn't believe it afterwards and am looking forward to it when I start in September."

Mum Sarah and elder brother William are equally proud of him and excited about his future.

But ever-humble George has his dancer's feet firmly on the ground.

"I know there are better dancers than me but I will try my hardest - there is so much to learn," he said.

He will attend the school's White Lodge where he will train in contemporary, character and English folk dances alongside other studies and plenty of core training.

A typical day will see George take part in pilates and strength training, which even now he tries to do daily.

"You have to really love it!" he acknowledges.

The physical demands of dance mean that most careers are short, but world-class training will certainly keep George on his toes.