A talented dancer from Maryhill has her sights firmly set on starring on London’s West End after graduating from one of the UK’s most prestigious performing arts colleges.

Karen Walker, who completed HND Dance Artists at Glasgow Clyde College before accepting a place to London, has just graduated with a degree in Theatre Dance and has already auditioned for ten West End shows.

The former John Paul Academy pupil, who has been dancing since she was three years old, said: “My life pretty much revolves around dancing but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I started studying at Glasgow Clyde College when I was 18 years old and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made as all the lecturers were so supportive of me wanting to following my dreams.”

Between auditions, the 24-year-old has spent her summer travelling home to inspire the next generation of professional dancers by teaching workshops at Glasgow Clyde College.

Karen added: “It’s surreal to be teaching at my former college but I’ve been loving every minute. It’s great to speak to the students and share my experiences of training in London and working in the industry with them.”

Karen represents just one of the many recent success stories from the college - two recent graduates, who took part in her workshops, have been offered places at the renowned Bird College of Dance, Music and Theatre Performance.

Gemma Lilley, 19, and 20-year-old Laura Allan will both move to London to train at the college - former college of Sporty Spice Melanie Chisholm of The Spice Girls.

Fellow student Sammy Mullen, who is from Bellshill, has been awarded a scholarship to attend Laine Theatre Arts in London.

The 20-year-old, who successfully completed HND Dance Artists at Glasgow Clyde College’s Dance Studio Scotland last year, has been selected to receive the renowned Betty Laing Scholarship.

Maxine Railton, Senior Lecturer at Dance Studio Scotland, based in Glasgow Clyde College, said: “Dancing offers a fantastic way for students to express themselves and we are so proud of Karen for her success.

"Karen is incredibly talented and we have loved having her back at the college to hold workshops for our current students.

"They have really enjoyed taking part and hearing all about her experiences of training and working in London.”