Stratford dance crew Unity Uk makes finals of TV competition

The hard work of a Maryland dance group has been rewarded with national exposure - and a shot at televised glory.

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Members of the 12-strong Unity UK have been throwing shapes during the Sky 1 talent show Got to Dance.

They beat competition from thousands of entrants to reach the live semi-final and have won over judges with their “aggressive, high impact” hip-hop routines.

The group rehearses at least three times a week from its base in Gurney Road.

Choreographer Tashan Muir, 24, said he was overwhelmed to have made it this far in the competition.

He added: “To get as far as have has been a dream come true.

“We said when we entered that we wanted to put east London on the map. It’s been an excellent grounding for the young people.

“Everything we do is for young people in east London.”

One of the collective, Molly Boulding, was spotted dancing at a Pontins holiday camp last year.

Originally from Greenhithe, in Kent, she has juggled studying for ‘A’ Levels in psychology, maths and accountancy with sessions in the practice hall.

Her mother, Anita, said: “She wants to be a professional dancer. Her exams are like a fall back.

“I’m so proud of her and how dedicated she has been. She sometimes does her studying on the train to and from Stratford.”

The winners of Got to Dance are in line for a £250,000 prize. Unity UK’s semi-final is on February 26.