PUPILS from across Forth Valley are perfecting their moves and finishing off their outfits ahead of one of the region’s biggest dance contests next week.

Over 600 pupils will take part in the 2015 Forth Valley Schools Dance Competition at the Macrobert Arts Centre, University of Stirling, on Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 March.

Schools representing the Clackmannanshire area are Alloa Academy, Alva Academy and Lornshill Academy.

Pamela Steel, chair of the Forth Valley Schools Dance Competition Committee, said: “The Forth Valley Schools Dance Competition has become one of the region’s most exciting dance contests and entries for this year’s competition have gone up again, demonstrating how popular the event has become over the last few years.

“The standard of choreography and technical ability always seems to exceed expectations and we can’t wait to see another diverse range of performances on show this year.” Being held for the 12th time, the event provides a unique opportunity for some of the Forth Valley’s best dancing talent to show off their skills, with pupils developing all choreography and performances themselves.

Junior competitors (S1-S3) will be facing off on Monday 2 March, while their older peers (S4-S6) will try to impress the judges on Tuesday 3 March.

Tickets can be purchased from Macrobert Arts Centre by phone (01786 466666), online at www.macrobert.org or at the Macrobert Arts Centre ticket office.

The competition has been a sell out every year, so anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to order tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

A charity raffle will also take place during the event, raising funds for this year’s chosen beneficiary, Strathcarron Hospice.