A YOUNG ballet dancer who has been accepted for one of they top dance schools in Europe has been given the opportunity to raise money for her tuition by one of the region's arts venues.

Stephanie Elsob, of Birkdale, South Shields, will join the Central School of Ballet in Farringdon, London, in September on a three-year sponsorship.

Stephanie, 16, who has just completed ten GCSEs at Mortimer School, South Shields, will be given £2 for each ticket sold on her behalf for a performance of As You Like It, by the Cwmni Ballet Gwent at the Customs House in South Shields.

Ray Spencer, director of the Customs House, in Mill Dam, South Shields, said: "It is a fantastic opportunity for Stephanie and as a community-based arts venue, we are delighted to help her.

"It is a great honour for both her home town and the North-East."

Stephanie, who hopes to raise up to £500, said: "It is brilliant to be given such magnificent support from the Customs House, and the people of South Tyneside.