Express & Star

Star Ashley Banjo wowed Wolverhampton dance school

Star of stage and screen Ashley Banjo took over the reigns of a Wolverhampton dance school, showing off some of his best moves as he taught a unique workshop.

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Ashley Banjo at Newhampton Arts Centre

The 28-year-old street dancer found fame as leader of the dance troupe Diversity, who won the third series of Britain's Got Talent in 2009.

He was a hit with around 40 children and parents from Dance Force were present for the event at Newhampton Arts Centre on Friday night.

"He told the children to push yourselves to do your best. Just be the best you can," owner of Dance Force, Naomi Wootton said.

Ashley taught two sessions across four hours on the evening, with children ranging from six to late teens and up to 21-year-olds.

He demonstrated different Hip Hop and Break Dance moves in easy-to-follow sections.

Naomi, whose nine-year-old daughter Mia also took part, said Ashley was an 'inspiration'.

She added: "He was just a genuinely nice person who had so much time for everyone and even for pictures with the parents too.

"It was so lovely to see, the children were so excited and when he walked through the doors they all started screaming.

"It was Mia's first workshop too, so that was really special for it to be with Ashley.

"He even phoned Perri from Diversity and had a conversation with him so the children could say hello. It was fantastic.

"He was a real inspiration and offered so much help and advice. The children who did the best dance had to reverse the moves and do them the other way around then. He wanted them to reach their best potential."

Ashley agreed to attend Dance Force after Naomi contacted his management earlier on in the year and he jumped at the chance.

"Hopefully he'll come again as he said he would like too, you never know he might even bring some members of Diversity next time," she added.

"To have him here with us in Wolverhampton was a real buzz."

To enquire about places at Dance Force contact Naomi on 07912675773