Hopeman boy's best moment ever

A YOUNG boy with dreams of starring in ‘Billy Elliot’ is to train with a prestigious ballet school.

Callum Carey (11) from Hopeman, has secured one of only four places on the Scottish Ballet’s Junior Associates programme.

Around 300 children from across the country auditioned, which involved dance classes and specific exercises.

Callum, who celebrates his 11th birthday tomorrow (Saturday), will travel to Glasgow once a month to receive coaching from top dance teachers and choreographers.

He began dancing after being spotted by a talent scout while at school in Leicester. But his passion for ballet was only ignited when he moved to Moray two years ago with dad Sean, mum Emma, sisters Anna (13) and 11-year-old Katie, and brother Thomas (9).

Callum began street dancing and ballet lessons in Nairn with Abi Lawman. But family circumstances meant he could only continue with one class, so Callum chose ballet.

It was his current dance instructor, Susan Airey, who suggested he audition for the Junior Associates programme.

Emma said: "Like many girls, I did ballet when I was little, but I was rubbish. And the girls did it, but they hated it."

Callum could hardly believe it when he received his letter of acceptance. He said: "I was just thrilled; it was probably the best moment I’ve ever had.

"Ballet challenges me. I enjoy every moment when I’m dancing. My sisters, brother and cousins all support me, and my mum and dad provide most support of all."

Callum is aiming to fulfill the prediction of his mum’s great-aunt Eve, who before she died told him she believed he would perform as Billy Elliot.