TWO talented Bournemouth students are waltzing their way to glittering ballroom careers.

At just 15, Bournemouth’s Oli Beardmore and Bettina Hatfield are tripping the light fantastic on the international ballroom scene.

Oli, who dances competitively with Lydia Hall, is ranked number two in the world after a succession of wins.

And Bettina has just stepped up into the adult world of ballroom dancing after teaming up with her 22 year-old Ukrainian partner Vadym Negrebetskiy, making her the youngest competitor in the over 21s categories.

The LeAF Studio students now both have their sights set on more competition wins and lives as professional ballroom dancers.

Oli, who recently returned triumphant from the International Polish Championships, said: “I took up dancing five years ago and soon realised how much I loved it and began entering competitions.

“My goal is to keep winning, become a professional dancer and buy my own dance studio.”

Earlier this year Oli also competed in Greece, where he was crowned WDC Greek Open Latin Champion.

His next major competition will be the Open Championships in Lithuania on May 28.

Meanwhile Bettina is forging her way into adult competition six years ahead of schedule.

Bettina was brought together with her partner Vadym by her dance teacher and former World Ballroom champion Kristi Boyce.

They have already chalked up high placings on the national and international competition scene.

And like Oli, Bettina is determined to make it as a professional and would like to teach in America.

She added: “You’ve got to aim high.”

Her next competition will be the Amateur World Championships, which will be held in Blackpool from May 21.

Executive Principal at LeAF Studio, Gill Blanshard, said: “To have two students gracing the international stage is absolutely phenomenal and we’re so proud of them.

“Who knows, in a few years’ time they might be getting a 10 from Len on Strictly Come Dancing.”

Bettina is currently looking for sponsorship and any businesses interested should contact Tanya Hall at the LeAF Studio on 01202 578886.