RISING ballet stars Christina and Jonathan Stephenson leapt for joy when told they had been talent spotted to attend a specialist dance school.

The brother and sister, were invited to go to the Stonelands School of Ballet and Theatre Art, in Hove, East Sussex, after attending a summer school there.

But Christina, ten, and Jonathan, nine, returned to earth quickly to face the reality of the astronomical costs involved.

Their mother, Susan, a single parent who is busy with her studies, has now urgently started looking for sponsors to give them the kickstart to their careers they need.

Ms Stephenson, who lives in Tanfield Lea, near Stanley, said: "We were overjoyed to hear they had been selected. They have worked so hard and deserve it. But I just cannot afford it.

"It will cost £25,000 a year, or £162,000 altogether to complete their education there.

"It is so frustrating. I have tried everywhere to get funding, including Northern Arts, the Millennium Award, and the Nesta awards.

"They either do not fund them or I have been told I cannot get help because they are not deprived or do not belong to a special group."

Christina said: "This is something I have always dreamed about. I have always wanted to become a dancer."

Christina and Jonathan, who go to Tanfield Lea Junior School, have risen through the ranks at the Marron State School in Whickham, Gateshead, where they have danced since they were young.

They have both appeared in pantomimes at Newcastle's Theatre Royal, including Peter Pan, Aladdin and Jack and the Beanstalk, alongside stars such as Denise Welch, Leslie Joseph and John Nettles.

"I am hoping to find businesses or individuals who will help sponsor them," said Ms Stephenson.

Anyone who can help has been asked to contact Ms Stephenson on (07984) 763076 or (01207) 234693.