TWO hundred twinkle toed youngsters have helped a dance school smash through the £30,000 fundraising barrier.

Youngsters aged three to 17 took to the stage at Dunbar Grammar School at the beginning of the month for four performances to raise funds for the Royal Hospital for Sick Children.

The Dunbar School of Dancing performances brought in £3,343.20, which takes their total over the past 15 years to more than £30,500.

Julie Friar, who founded the school, which is based at the town’s Hallhill Sports Centre, was delighted with the event’s success.

She said: “It has been hard work but a lot of fun.

“I had no idea that I would even do as many shows as this when I started out – never mind to get this much money.”

Dancing at the four shows ranged from classical ballet to contemporary and from jazz to hip hop.

The money raised will go towards Dance Ihayami, which will see dancers visit the hospital wards every fortnight as part of a storytelling programme.

Julie thanked everyone for their support and praised the youngsters’ for their efforts.

She said: “There is a lot of hard work and commitment from both the children and parents.

“I have got a lovely group of parents and helpers who have helped me over the years and stuck with it.”

Vicki Watson, community fundraiser at the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, added her own thanks.

She said: "Julie and the Dunbar School of Dance have been incredible supporters of ours over the years and have funded some wonderful projects and equipment that have made such a difference to the experience of children and young people in hospital and their families at such a difficult time.

"This year they raised £3,343 which brings the amount they have raised, since 2004 to over an amazing £30,000!

"This year funds raised have gone to fund some fun and therapeutic dance workshops on the wards.

"We are so grateful to everyone who has made this possible, we could not continue to do the work we do without supporters like Julie."