Funding for dancing classes

Shows like Strictly Come Dancing have helped dance's popularity

The government is investing an extra £5.5m to encourage more young people to take up dancing.

The announcement comes after a review of youth dance by the chief executive of the Royal Opera House Tony Hall.

The profile and popularity of dance has been raised following the success of television programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing.

Extra centres for advanced training will also be set up to support exceptionally gifted young dancers.

One centralised body will provide leadership and focus.

According to BBC arts correspondent Rebecca Jones, the government thinks it is now a good time to invest the extra cash to give more young people the chance to dance - both for fun and fitness.

British ballet companies have a world class reputation and dance is the second most popular school activity after football, our correspondent added.