A CHILDREN'S TV presenter who starred alongside JLS singer Aston before he was famous is starting a funky dance class in High Wycombe.

Kerry Newell who can be seen each day on CITV on the children's programme The Fun Factory with Aston has set up the class, Funkyds, with West End performer Paul Allnutt.

Taught by one of their dedicated teachers the new class will offer professional classes for children to learn the latest dance moves from music videos, television and West End theatre.

Allnutt has worked in the West End in shows such as Grease and Fame and has worked on the dance project at the Wycombe Swan for the past two years as a choreographer.

Newell trained at the Arts Educational School in Tring and has appeared in the West End in various shows.

Newell and Allnutt, who lives in Hertfordshire, will both be taking the free taster sessions they are offering at the end of next week.

Allnutt said: “It is a real great area in terms of theatre and arts. One of the things is if we are not running these classes ourselves we need to find really great teachers who are passionate about what they do and we have found really great teachers for the high Wycombe class.”

He said they offer a fun environment for children who just want to enjoy themselves and not worry about exams or take it too seriously.

Allnutt added: “We do have advice for people who want to take it more seriously.

“I generally say bring a friend if they are nervous about coming. We find the kids really open up once they are in.”

There will be a free taster session on Friday February 19 for 4-6 years-olds from 10- 10.45am, for 6 to 9-year-olds from 11am-12pm and for 9 to 12-year-olds from 12-1pm.

To book a place email funkyds@hotmail.co.uk or call 01707275956 or 07510242354 at the Royal British Legion, St Mary's Street in High Wycombe.

Classes start on Saturday, February 27 and cost £4.50 for the youngest class and £5 for the older two classes.