A FIVE-YEAR-OLD girl has come runner up at the British Dancing Championships only six months after taking up the hobby.

Siobhan Lee, from Beaumont Way, Darwen, was only four when she entered, and one of the youngest at the event, held in Preseli, North Wales.

She began dancing after watching her sister, Sophie Lee, star of British film, Grow Your Own, excel at performing.

Hundreds of children from all over the country arrived in Preseli and competed in heats before going through to qualifying rounds.

Siobhan was among 20 children in the under six freestyle semi-final qualifying round and one of 13 who went through to the grand final. In the grand final, she came second in her freestyling category for the under sixes.

Angie Lee, 45, Siobhan's mum, said that Siobhan is a natural performer and is always singing and dancing around the house. She said: "I was so amazed she came runner up."

Siobhan who trains at Sandersons' School of Dance in Blackburn enjoys regular classes and wishes to continue with dancing competitions.

She also entered a dancing competition in Blackpool in November and came third overall, after dancing in the freestyle and open dance competitions.

Siobhan's dance teacher, Lucy Yates, who was at the competition, said that Siobhan performed brilliantly.

Lucy said: "Siobhan is exceptionally gifted and has big future ahead of her.

"For her to come second at such a young age is a real achievement. Everyone at the school is very proud of her.

"It's a prestigious comp-etition, held annually. It attracted hundreds of children from all over the country."

Angie added: "She came along to see some dancing with me about six months ago and wanted to have a go.

"I am very proud of Siobhan and will support her in whatever she decides to do. She wants to be a dancer and a singer - either that or a football player."

Angie is planning a fundraiser when Siobian will be dancing in January.