Batley acrobat heads for BBC One show Tumble’s semi-finals

Billy George, 23, is one of the professionals on the programme, training The Only Way Is Essex actress Lucy Mecklenburgh.

Even after the judges’ harsh comments last week, the duo are just a step away from television glory.

Billy said: “We’ve got a cracking routine for this week. The judges will be happy with Lucy’s skill level.

“You are taking somebody who has a very minimal knowledge and we’ve got to train them up to be able to perform and be technical.

“We had eight weeks of training going up to the shows and then each week we’re learning the routines for that week and the next week. It’s crazy but it’s so much fun.”

As the competition rolls into the next heat, the all-important public vote now determines whether the contestants get through.

“We’ve got a good chance but we still need those votes. With our two routines I think we’re going to be all right,” Billy said. “I’d like to get Batley’s votes.”

Former Brownhill Primary pupil Billy, who took his first steps in mum June Wilkinson’s Armley Dance Studios, appeared on Britain’s Got Talent’s semi-finals in 2012 .

He moved to London at 18, attending the National Centre for Circus Arts and plying his talent for acrobatics and the Cyr wheel. He has since performed around the world.

Billy said: “I always go home, walk around and just feel comfortable. It’s wicked to represent a very small town.”

Tumble is on BBC One tomorrow (Saturday) at 6pm.