A SPLASH of colour and exuberant dancing saw the Billingham International Folklore Festival get off to a stunning start.

With performers travelling from around the world to take part in the week-long event, it is truly an international festival.

Troupes from Brazil, Chile, China, Mexico, the Philippines, Serbia, USA and Sicily.

Closer to home, performers from Teesside dance school Tapshoes and Tutus are taking part in this year's event.

Under the guidance of teacher Amy Cairney, the dancers aged between three and eleven will perform two routines.

The first is based on this year's festival theme of Two Feathers in the Wind, while the second takes its inspiration from the countries taking part.

The dance teacher said: "As a young dancer I always wanted to be involved in the festival so to have the opportunity now with my young dancers is fantastic.

"They're all so excited to be performing on such a big stage, and to see how dancers from around the world gear up for their routines."

Around 10,000 people attended last year's festival and organisers are confident this year's packed programme of events will attract even more.

Artistic Director Olga Maloney said: "The festival is a spectacular display and celebration of dance from performers around the world and we hope this year will be our most successful yet."

Most of the concerts and events will be held at the Festival Arena, which this year will be right in the middle of Billingham Town Centre, with other events being held in Middlesbrough Town Hall Crypt, Middlesbrough Theatre and Billingham Forum.

Core funding for this year's festival has come from Stockton Borough Council, while Arts Council England is funding the contemporary elements of the festival and Awards for All funding a programme to take dancers into care homes in the area.

To book tickets log onto billinghamfestival.co.uk/store or call 01642-553220.