TWINKLE-toed dancers are stepping out as they prepare to perform at the 93rd Inverclyde Music Festival.

Pupils at Aileymill Primary are rehearsing round the clock before they take to the stage for the Scottish Country Dancing competition on Tuesday.

Festival president Isabel Lind, the former head teacher at the school, popped in to see the rehearsals — and even joined in a few dances.

She said: “Country dancing is a particular favourite of mine because I was never picked for the country dance team when I was at school — I couldn’t dance.

“But when I came to work at Aileymill Primary we had a staff team, so at the age of 65 I danced at the festival.

“I can’t say I was very good but it was most enjoyable.

“This year I’m delighted that we have a good number of teams entered that have not competed before in the country dancing.

“It’s something we like to encourage as country dancing is part of our heritage.”

Aileymill brothers Scott and Andrew Smith say they can’t wait to perform at the festival.

Scott, 11, who is in primary seven, said: “Most boys think dancing is for girls but in country dancing you need the boys to keep it going.”

Andrew, nine, who is in primary five, added: “It’s good fun because you get to know other pupils in the whole school.

“Everyone helps each other.”

Teacher Ashley Bell and additional support needs assistant Graham Carson have been working with the pupils ahead of the festival, which starts on Monday at Greenock Town Hall.

Mrs Bell said: “The pupils have been so committed, they’ve been rehearsing on their lunch breaks and at play times.

“This really builds their confidence and gives them the chance to perform in front of an audience.

“The festival is wonderful for the children.”

The school would like to thank Smiths of Greenock who donated kilts for the children to wear.