A young Irish dancer from County Derry was recently shortlisted for a new Sky television programme called Got to Dance.

Six-year-old Ellie O’Neill from The Loup successfully passed her audition for the UK wide talent show which is presented by Davina McCall.

The show, which is currently being broadcast on Sky One, features thousands of dance acts all hoping win the top prize of £100,000.

After wowing the star studded judging panel, which includes Diversity lead choreographer Ashley Banjo, Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt and West End star Adam Garcia, Ellie won two gold stars and a place in the judge’s shortlist for the live semi-finals.

Although the Smith School of Irish Dancing pupil didn’t make it through to the final stages of the competition Ellie’s mum Martina says she really enjoyed the experience.

“I am so proud of Ellie, she done really well and she really loved the experience,” said Martina. 

“She has been dancing since she was three but only started competing a year ago and in that time she has gone from a beginner to open.  She recently won first place in the under six light jig competition at the Ulster Irish Dancing Championships and was placed runner-up in the reel.

“When we saw the show advertised on an Irish dancing website Ellie wanted to enter it. 

“We went to the auditions in Manchester and Ellie performed a reel for the judges in one of the Sky dance domes, it was a great experience for her and it was also her first time on the plane so she really enjoyed it.”