AN ambitious 16-year-old dancer who trains in Warrington is ready to hold the hopes of the country on her shoulders at this month's world championships in Italy.

Emily Edwards, who trains at StagePro Academy, on Museum Street, will pit herself up against the best from across the globe on October 21 after being selected by the International Dance Organisation to represent England.

But as well as taking part in the singles showdown Emily, from Newton-le-Willows, is also preparing to take part in the small groups category as part of British champions Heartbeat and the duo competition category with Tumelo Moniwa.

It comes after she wowed judges in Poland in June when she finished seventh out of 120 dancers in the European Hip Hop Championships.

The final few two weeks of preparations are in full flow but Emily is enjoying every minute of it, even though training can often top 25 hours a week.

But her passion is no doubt boosted by her love for the craft, helped along the way by her uncle, who performed with King of Pop Michael Jackson.

"My mum took me to ballet when I was three and then I did disco dancing before knowing I really wanted to start properly when I was 10," she said.

"My uncle was on Michael Jackson's Dangerous tour and he has helped me along the way."

Emily, whose favourite dance style is hip hop, is eyeing top prizes in each of the competitions in Italy and she will have a special fan in her corner cheering her on all the way.

"I am extremely scared but I am excited," added Emily, who also teaches under 7s dancers during her hectic schedule.

"I want to get a trophy and finish first – there is no point in going if you don't go to win.

"My mum will be going along with me to offer support, which will be nice."

Mum Melanie admitted she can't wait to see her talented daughter in action again.

She has been full of praise for the commitment displayed week in week out by Emily.

"She is going through intensive training with the dancers – it is hardcore and on the next level," she said.

Emily was also keen to thank everyone at StagePro for their continued support and the Tesco store, on Winwick Road, for allowing dancers to carry out bag packing to help raise funds to travel.