TALENTED dance student Abi Blears has been presented with an award from former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney.

Abi, aged 19, of Bollin Close, Sandbach, met the music legend after graduating from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts also known as The Paul McCartney Fame School.

She was presented with her diploma in performing arts by Sir Paul at a special ceremony at the Philharmonic Hall in Liverpool.

Abi has been at the school for a year and for the next three years she will be studying for a national diploma in professional dance at Liverpool Theatre School and College.

Proud mum Dianne said: "She has been talented enough to have been awarded a government Dance and Drama Award worth over £28,000 after an intense audition involving singing, acting and dancing.

"She was also offered places at Middlesex University and a prestigious dance college in London but decided to remain in Liverpool."