A FORMER professional dancer from Bournemouth will be performing at the London Palladium this weekend in a star-studded extravaganza to celebrate the 100th birthday of Dame Vera Lynn.

Alison Neale has flown in from her home in Canada to perform for one night only on Saturday.

She will be part of the line-up helping to raise money for Dame Vera Lynn's Children's Charity, alongside stars including Wayne Sleep, Bradley Walsh, Russel Watson and many more.

Alison, 50, who grew up in Bournemouth, said: "What a privilege to have been asked to perform along with a host of stars from the world of entertainment to help raise funds for Dame Vera's children's charity.

"And at the same time I get the chance to dance for Dougie Squires OBE - the choreographer who gave me my first professional job at the age of 14 at Poole Panto followed by theatre and television contracts.

"After a successful career spanning over 35 years I am now a dual Canadian and British citizen, have taught dancing all over the world and model for a boutique in Calgary.

"But to put on my dancing shoes one more time at age 50 is a dream come true.

"Dame Vera Lynn's 100th birthday spectacular at the London Palladium is certain to be a night to remember."

This is the second time Alison has appeared in the Echo. Thirty-five years ago she won a competition at the Bournemouth Dance Festival and her photo taken for the evening edition of the paper.

As part of Dame Vera’s 100th birthday celebrations the 'forces' sweetheart' released a new album on Friday (March 17) called Vera Lynn 100 .

Her official birthday is on Monday, March 20.