Junior's dance ambitions step up a gear

Junior Frood wants to emulate the title star of the 2000 film in becoming a dance sensation.

Junior, who studies at Leeds West Academy, has been awarded a prestigious scholarship in London and another boost came when National Express pledged to provide Junior and his family with free travel to the capital so he can pursue his dream further.

Junior, 12, has been crowned UK Freestyle Dance Champion, performed with Justin Bieber and was recently appointed one of the official cheerleaders for Leeds Rhinos rugby team.

And his blossoming career then took another turn when he landed a full, lifetime scholarship at the famous Pineapple Performing Arts School in London.

Despite the joyous news, Junior’s mum Kerry was worried that she could not afford the weekly train fare for Junior, herself and her younger son, Jake, eight.

She wrote to National Express and staff at the coach operator were so taken aback by her story that they were delighted to be able to help the family, who live in Meanwood.

Kerry, who works as a nurse at St James’ Hospital, said: “We are all just so grateful to National Express for being so generous and helping Junior to try and achieve his dreams.

“This training could potentially change his life forever and start him off on the professional dance career that he so desperately wants.”

National Express Managing Director Chris Hardy said: “Junior is an outstanding talent with a very bright future ahead of him.

“We wish him every success in his career.”