A YOUNG dancer from Greenock triumphed in a tough transatlantic test and made memories to last a lifetime.

Isabelle Hay, seven, travelled to Las Vegas to compete in the US Scottish Highland Dance National Championships.

The youngster, a pupil at Jackson Dance Academy, didn’t let the bright lights faze her and impressed as she took second runner up in her first competition outside the UK.

Not only did Isabella return home with a huge trophy but she claimed a host of individual medals and $125 in prize money.

Mum Mariann said: “The whole experience was unforgettable.

"Isabella did everyone proud, everyone at the competition was so impressed with her.

“She worked so hard - she trains four nights a week and even practised while we were there.

"She loved it, she wasn’t fazed and just went up and danced her heart out.”

Isabella had been looking forward to the trip and making new friends and it didn’t disappoint.

Mariann said: “The atmosphere was amazing and the older dancers were just brilliant with Isabella.

"She made a new friend from America and they now keep in touch on Facebook.

“She got a book signed at the end by everyone she met including some very well known professional dancers and she was just so excited, she loved it.”

The family spent a week in Las Vegas and a week in Mexico as they turned the trip into a holiday.

Isabella said: “It was amazing being with other dancers from all over.

“I wasn’t nervous and I am really happy with my trophy and medals."

While Isabella was shining in America, her gran, grandad, aunt and dance teacher Linda Jackson were tuned into a live feed at 3am to see the results.

Linda said: “I stayed up to watch it, I couldn’t wait to see how she got on.

“I have seen her come on so much but it is because of her determination and how hard she works."

Mariann thanked everyone for the support they received both at the competition and from people at home who were keeping up to date with the competition.

She said: “The support at home has been amazing, having people up watching at that time in the morning was great and Isabella is delighted she did them all proud.”