Plate-spinner Emily Lacey, 16, and break-dancer Troy Goodall, nine, from Earls Barton, impressed the judges at heats for the Pontin's Starquest competition while they were on holiday at Brean Sands Pontin's resort, in Somerset, earlier this year.

Emily won the Junior Bluecoat category and Troy took the medal in the age eight to 10 group, meaning they will now both be going back for the national final at Brean Sands on November 28.

Emily said: "I'm really pleased because I didn't expect to get through and I'm looking forward to it. It will be a good weekend away.

"I do performing arts at Northampton College so that helps me with practising."

The pair have also benefited from each other's support in preparing for the big final.

Troy said: "We've been meeting up and playing a bit of music that we like. We get on fine.

And Emily added: "We hardly ever argue.

"We get on well and I have been teaching Troy new dance moves."

The final will see the two young performers competing against finalists from across the UK, with some coming from Scotland to the resort to take part.

Emily would like to become a bluecoat entertainer at Pontin's in the future, and if she wins the finals her dream could come true, as she will receive a free holiday next summer, as well as training to join the Pontin's team.

This year she will be performing 'flower-sticking', which involves using two sticks to juggle a third baton in the air.

Troy is in the running for a grand prize of £1,000, as well as a free holiday.

And he is hoping to break-dance his way to victory.

Troy's dad Roger Goodall, 53, of Blackwell Close, Earls Barton, said: "I'm pleased they have done it.

"They did it last year and we all went along for the first time.
"The final of the competition is a really big event."

Emily's mum Mandy Lacey, of Elizabeth Way, Earls Barton, said: "I feel really proud they have won through to the final.
"Emily has been practising her circus acts."