SCHOOLGIRLS twirled and stomped across stage as they put a dance project into practice.

A choreographer called in at The Leys CDI in Oxford to 'empower' its members through the medium of dance.

The group is based in Blackbird Leys, Oxford and offers activities for young people on the estate.

Its Easter programme included five sessions with London choreographer Michele Du Verney, ending with a performance on Wednesday in front of parents and friends.

She said: "It was definitely about empowering them through dance. When I was young and wanted to dance, it was about knowing where to go and what to do to become a dancer. It's just about giving them some guidance and advice.

"It was a combination of street dance and contemporary styles."

The choreographer has dedicated most of her career to television and film, including on hits such as Ali G Indahouse, but also runs projects to inspire a new generation of dancers.

She has previously worked with youngsters at Littlemore Community Centre in Oxford.

The performance on Wednesday evening involved nine girls aged between 11 and 15-years-old, who all go to The Leys CDI's youth club.

Family and friends gathered to watch at Glow Hall in Blackbird Leys Community Centre.

The CDI's youth project development manager, Marsha Jackson, added: "It was nice for them to come up with a piece that was inspired by young women and performed by young women."

Singers also entertained audience members at the show, as well as a poet who read out an original spoken word piece.