TWELVE young dancers are quick-stepping their way towards Duke of Edinburgh Awards, with the help of a council forum.

The children, from Langley Park, near Durham, formed a dance group after attending a recent Sportstart event sponsored by Durham County Council’s Mid Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP).

Since then, they have been meeting for weekly dance sessions.

They have already given a performance in front of a 130-strong audience and further shows are planned for March.

Now they are hoping to work towards a Duke of Edinburgh Award, using dance to meet the physical activity section.

The Mid Durham AAP has provided funding for the group as part of a project which will see a range of causes share £30,000.

Keith Tallintire, chairman of Mid Durham AAP, said: "By working in partnership and putting young people at the heart of the AAP, we can provide positive, healthy and educational activities that young people genuinely want to do."