A television presenter showed he had not forgotten his roots when he stepped in to save the dance studio that laid the foundations for his career.

Former Dance Factory and Sportsround presenter Nigel Clarke was determing to restore the North London Dance Studio to its former glory after he heard it had closed in 2013.

The studio, in Green Lanes, Winchmore Hill, opened 18 years ago and was a key component in the 36-year-old former dancer's success,

Mr Clarke, of Arnos Grove, said: “It was sad to hear the news that the academy was no longer running. I feel it gave me the chance I needed to achieve what I wanted.”

After joining the studio in 1995, the presenter says he learnt many of the skills he has used in his career.

The CBBC presenter will be reopening the academy as Dance Studio Performing Arts in September and is looking for new recruits.

He said: “Unlike the other big studios in London, this is far more intimate and allows the teachers to have a close relationship with each and every student.

“It allows people to develop quickly and it set me up very well for your future career.

“I couldn’t let this opportunity pass me by and we will be looking for between ten and 20 people to sign up for our two-year course which will be 5 days a week.”