A FAMILY-RUN dance school has expanded to create a bespoke facility in Norton.

Dance Expression, which was set up in 2009 by sisters Lucy Walker and Anna Baggaley, has opened new studios at Ryedale Community Leisure Centre, off Scarborough Road.

Both from Norton, the pair returned to the town after completing their dance education in London at The Royal Academy of Dance and Laine Theater Arts.

Initially running just nine classes a week, Dance Expression has expanded to more than 70 sessions for three-year-olds to pensioners, ranging from ballet and tap to musical theatre and zumba.

Lucy said that in the past nine years that had used various places to teach including local schools, the youth centre and sports hall. “We had got to the point that we had too many students and classes and had to have our own space,” she said.

“The bowls club was an exciting opportunity to create a bespoke facility and we have made significant investment in industry-leading flooring, mirrors and acoustic equipment to create three high-class studios and one singing and music room.”

Anna said it was very much a family business with their parents and husbands always on hand to help out.

She said: “Our caring positive atmosphere is replicated in the excellent positive relationships all members have with students and parents alike.

“Plans for the future are to continue to grow, further enhance the opportunities we provide to our students and to continue to inspire a passion and enthusiasm for dance and performing arts in Norton, Malton and the surrounding area.

“We’ve already had lots of new students join us since opening our new facility as this has given us increased capacity to create new classes for students who were on our waiting lists.”

Details at dancexpression.co.uk or phone 01653 691102.