A GIRL is hoping for a fairy godmother or father to make her dreams come true.

Francie-Jo Heward is only 13, but the junior tap dance champion already has her heart set on a stage career.

The Northumbrian junior tap dancing champion has earned the chance to attend Ravenscourt Theatre School, in Hammersmith, London.

But her mother, Samantha, who is also her dance teacher, does not have the money to send her to the academy, which regularly supplies talent for television dramas and West End shows.

Mrs Heward said: "She can't wait to go; it's what she has always wanted. I want to give her the chance. I did not get a chance like that when I was her age, but I just cannot afford to send her on my own.

"You have to board there five days a week and the cost is astronomical. Unless we can get a sponsor, she is not going to be able to go."

Francie-Jo would study at the school, where her ordinary classroom lessons would continue, for three years.

Mrs Heward said: "They have their own agency and if she is successful, she will get work while she is there. They have had people in Eastenders and Family Affairs.''

To help, call (01642) 825118 or write to 6 Croft Avenue, Acklam, Middlesbrough.