A DANCER from Cronton has become only the second British graduate from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy.

Daniel Dolan has been asked to continue performing with Bolshoi Ballet for another three years, becoming only the second Briton to join the world-renowned dance troop since it was founded in 1776.

The 20-year-old Widnes Vikings fan said: “Widnes isn't known for its ballet dancers, mainly for its rugby, so I had to travel to hone my skills.

“It was a challenge being away from home at first, but dancing was something I had always wanted to do. To become the best you can be at any style of sport you have to be willing to sacrifice a lot.”

It has not been an easy ride though and Daniel had to become accustomed to the harsh regime to reach the standard the Bolshoi demands.

He said: “The coaches I have in Russia are the toughest I have ever met but that said, they are also the ones that have shown me what I can achieve. They broke me down mentally and physically and rebuilt me as a stronger dancer and person.

“Now I am keen to put my own stamp on the sport and prove that a lad from Widnes can be just as good, and maybe one day even better, than iconic artists like these.”