FOUR fleet-footed dancers earned rave reviews after appearing solo on stage for the first time.

Young talents Arya Graham, Clara Pollard, Jennifer Hanna and Miah McCreadie earned plenty of plaudits as they crossed the Clyde to perform in their first stage competition at the SDTA Stage Dance Festival and Championship in Helensburgh.

The girls all attend Linda Jackson Dance Academy in Greenock and their mentor is delighted with their progress.

Linda said: "The girls did fantastically well and danced marvellously.

"They rose to the occasion so well.

"Their confidence has grown since they went on stage.

"I have kids who are performing at championship level but you've got to take that first step.

"It's a big achievement for the girls, especially after lockdown and having to practice all the routines on Zoom."

The cute competitors had their signature tunes and own routines to perform.

Arya, seven, from Port Glasgow, sang You Are My Sunshine and her mum Emma Louise was proud of her performance.

Emma Louise, 37, said: "I was so nervous but when Arya started performing I settled.

"She look so confident on the stage."

Clara, six, from South Street in Greenock, sang old favourite Swinging on a Star, previously performed by child star Lena Zavaroni.

Mum Veronica, 37, said: "Clara was very nervous but she really enjoyed it and I was very proud."

Jennifer, six, sang The Sun Has Got Its Hat On, combined with a knock out dance routine.

Mum Lyndsey, 36, of Braeside, said: "Jennifer was brilliant, full of confidence.

"It was a good experience for her and it's pushed her to do more, I'm really excited for her going ahead."

Miah, six, did a ballet solo even though she hasn't been studying it for long.

Mum Claire Connachan, 31, told the Tele: "Miah's new to ballet, she only started just before lockdown but oozed confidence."

Tutor Linda is now tipping the girls for big things.

She said: "This is the next generation of stars."