Cramlington's Francesca Mango has been selected from hundreds of north east hopefuls to play Debbie in Billy Elliot The Musical.

The nine-year-old has now signed a six-month contract with the show, which will see her performing at the Victoria Palace Theatre from the start of June.

Francesca's mum Lorna, said: "I took her to the auditions in Newcastle in February and we were so pleased when she got through the auditions.

"Then when we were told she was in the final we were so excited.

"I couldn't believe it when she was chosen, and now she is going to be starring in the West End – it's amazing.

"I am so proud of her as dancing is in her bones."

The Burnside First School pupil, who attends the Michaela Percival School of Dancing in Cramlington, will now begin rehearsals ahead of opening night.

Lorna said: "Rehearsals start soon and then in June she begins the show, we are all really excited and I can't wait to see her perform.

"This has always been something she has wanted to do and a part in Billy Elliot is a great opportunity for her."