Dance hopeful Ruby Saunders is appealing for a sponsor to make her childhood dream come true.

Former Whitstone student Ruby, aged 18, of Tadley Acres, won a place at the Stella Mann College in Bedford.

But to ensure the she could afford to attend the renowned national dance school she needed to win a Dance and Drama Award which gives students a fully funded place.

Despite reaching the finals of the auditions, Ruby, who is studying for a National Diploma in Performing Arts at City of Bath College, missed out on the award.

Now she cannot afford the annual fees of nearly £10,000.

"It is heartbreaking to have come so close – I am just do disappointed," said Ruby.

"You only get one opportunity to impress the judges. I thought I did well but it was a high-pressure day and the competition is really tough."

She said: "The Stella Mann College is the place to go if you want to have a successful career in dance."

Ruby's father is ill and unable to work and her mum is a care worker.

Said Ruby: "I know that times are tough for everyone at the moment but if there is any person or company that can help financially in any way at all I would be so grateful. It would mean the world to me."

Susie Tate, dance lecturer at the City of Bath College said: "Ruby is an outstanding student and has the potential to succeed in dance at the highest level."

Anyone who can help can contact Susie on 01225 328624 or email tates@citybathcoll.ac.uk.