Hundreds of people gathered last week to watch Diversity stars cut the ribbon at the opening of a new dance studio.

Michelle Hawkes, 35, owner of Dancescape Studios, launched the new Streetz Ahead Dance Academy space in Howard Business Park, Waltham Abbey on Friday with the help of Perri Kiely and Jordan Banjo of dance troupe, Diversity.

Over 300 people turned up to watch the Britains Got Talent 2009 winners open the studio that will cater for over 200 people of all ages.

Mrs Hawkes, who has been dancing professionally since the age of 19, started the dance troupe 12 years ago and said she has been ‘waiting to find the right space ever since’.

She said: “I have always said one day I'll have my own studio.

“I couldn't imagine retiring and getting old without fulfilling my dream.”

Streetz Ahead Dance Academy offers a variety of dancing styles including ballet, street dance, break dancing and theatre.

Waltham Abbey Town Mayor Ann Mitchell assisted with cutting the ribbon at the launch that saw hundreds of fans chanting the names of the talent show winners.

Mrs Hawkes added: "I met Jordan and Perri whilst working on a photo shoot with Diversity leader, Ashley Banjo, for the Sainsbury's Keep Active campaign in the summer. 

"Six of my kids did the shoot alongside him to promote healthy eating in schools.

“I now have the opportunity to launch many more classes to the community and surrounding areas.”

“Dancescape is called Dancescape as I see Dance as an escape, you could be having the worse day but dancing to a piece of music can take you to a completely different place.

“The launch was absolutely fantastic and the support was incredible, the studio really has fulfilled my dream.”