THREE young dancers from Malvern are among a team representing England in the Dance World Cup this year.

Members of Harlequin Stage School, which is based at Perdiswell Young People's Leisure Club in Worcester, have been chosen to participate in the contest alongside groups from 36 other countries.

The students were auditioned by the experts who select the England team and made the final shortlist of three representatives in each age group and category.

And among them are Lily Shervington, Becci Metcalfe and Liberty Beal, who all attend the Chase school in Malvern.

Paula Dymock, the principal of Harlequin Stage School, said: “The judges were so impressed with our group work they selected 10 of our soloists, seven duets, 14 trios and no fewer than 16 groups.

“The honour of making the selection team and to know that you are training students on a world level is fabulous. We have achieved so much in England and to be able to now stand on a world stage representing our country is taking some sinking in.

“I really do feel very, very proud of my students and teachers that they have reached this standard. This is going to be the biggest competition Harlequin have ever entered and it is such an honour for us.”

The world cup takes place in Bucharest, Romania, from June 28 to July 4, and the school is now looking for sponsorship to help cover the costs of the trip.

“To take over 85 students to Romania for 10 days to compete is going to be very expensive”, added Paula Dymock. The stage school has set itself a fundraising target of £35,000. For more details visit harlequinstageschool.org.uk.