STAR-struck baby ballerinas took to the stage for their very first public performance.

Seventy youngsters aged from three to six performed in front of a captivated audience of mums and dads, family and friends at St Peter’s School, Iford, Bournemouth.

Their Star Makers show was made up of Baby Ballet groups from Southbourne, Lilliput, Verwood and Kinson and was the first of what could become an annual event.

Aided by professional dancers, the polished show gave the youngsters the chance to perform the steps and movements they have learnt in their weekly classes.

“It’s a great way of children learning how to gain confidence and balance,” said Claire Westwood, who runs the groups which teach youngsters from six months to six years.

“They won’t necessarily all turn into prima ballerinas but they love listening to the music and expressing themselves,” she said.

“The majority are three years old and this is their first experience of being on a stage.”

The audience, over 200-strong, was also helping support the chosen charity for the event, Poole and District Children’s Cancer Fund.

“I chose it because I had a couple of personal reasons,” said Claire.

“They are one of the smaller charities and I heard they do a lot of good. It’s nice to be able to help raise the profile.”

And at the beginning and end of the hour long show, there were ballet themed cupcakes and tea and coffee, for hungry participants and observers.