A GIRL who dreams of becoming a dancing sensation has been nominated for a Young Champions award.

Jessica Footit, 11, of Clough Road, Hoyland, has been dancing since the age of three.

Last year, she decided to take things more seriously and since then, she has come on in leaps and bounds.

Her mum Rachael Footitt said: “Jessica has been part of the Fearons Middleton School of Dance for the last four years.

“I have watched her confidence sky rocket, especially over the last year.

“She participated in her first solo dance competition in 2017 and she was so nervous, she cried and ran off stage.

“With the help of her wonderful dance teachers, her confidence has grown tremendously and she is now competing and winning championships.”

Jessica is also a dancewear ambassador for a major company, Prima Dancewear, and a brand representative for a clothing line.

Jessica, who has an Instagram account with more than 14,000 followers, was also crowned Junior Miss Barnsley for 2018-19 after she was approached by Miss British Isles, a national modelling competition.

She will take part in the Miss British Isles finals, which include a number of age categories, this month.

Now her passion for dance has helped land her a Young Champions nomination.

Rachael added: “Jessica was a shy little girl who had no confidence.

“She doesn’t see how amazing she is or realise how far she’s come over the last year.

“Her hard work, determination and commitment has really paid off and I feel she deserves to be recognised for this.

“And she is not shy when it comes to helping others.

“She recently swam one mile for the Hallam FM Cash for Kids charity and participated in a sponsored walk, raising more than £200.

“She really deserves this nomination.”