Wayne, who lived in Hartlepool for 10 years, treated excited children to a dancing masterclass.



The 27 primary and secondary school pupils were put through their paces at the City Learning Centre, in Raby Road, in preparation for today's World Music Festival, which takes place today in the Headland's Borough Hall.

Wayne, a former principal dancer with the Royal Ballet, said: "It's great to be back in Hartlepool. I performed at the Borough Hall when I was seven so it's great to be going back there dancing.

"When I was in the town before I went to the Royal Ballet there was nothing like this for me.

"It's great they get the opportunity to perform on stage. I had to travel from the Headland to West Hartlepool to a little studio over a bike shop.

"The children here have a really high standard and just need breaks. They have loads of potential and there could be a few ballet stars in there. They should aim high."

Tonight's sell-out festival – which will feature more than 500 of the town's young stars – has a nautical theme as the town gears up for the Tall Ships' Races in 2010.

As well as choreographing the dance routine for the festival, 59-year-old Wayne is also acting as compere this evening.

Karen Adams-Shearer, Hartlepool Borough Council's school improvement adviser for curriculum enrichment, said: "We have some outstanding young dancers in Hartlepool and this is a wonderful opportunity for them to work with a master.

"I'm sure they will be truly inspired to give a masterful performance of their own."

Although born in Plymouth, he moved to live in Hartlepool with his family from the ages of five to 15.

Wayne, who now lives in London, often visits the town when travelling with shows such as the recent High Society and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang tours.

"I've been back to my old house in Friar Terrace and it's amazing how much things have changed," said Wayne, who went to Hartlepool Technical High School for Boys.

"They have gardens there now and some of the town is unrecognisable. But it is great to see."