THE temperature's rising and the heat is on for Sheffield showbiz hopeful Toby Beal...
The former Myers Grove School pupil, whose parents live in Hillsborough, is aiming to impress the judges and the voting public on new BBC1 Saturday evening hit Strictly Dance Fever!
He has been teamed up with fellow newcomer Casey Morris for the tal
ent contest hosted by comedy favourite Graham Norton.
And despite coming in for some criticism for their routine last week 28-year-old Toby has already caught the judges' eye and has been singled out by straight-talking talent spotter Arlene Phillips, who described him as "a god".
Toby and Casey are currently locked away behind strictly closed doors along with all the other competitors at a specially converted mansion near Uxbridge, where they go through gruelling daily training sessions in preparation for their next routines.
Mum and dad Geraldine and Bill have been down to see the live Saturday evening show at the BBC Television Centre in London and managed to pass on a few words of encouragement to the couple, who hope the show could be their passport to a career in showbusiness.
"Toby's been in Manchester for the past 10 years where he's a dancer, singer, song-writer and does some acting," said Bill.
"It's been his dream since he left home at 18 and we're all hoping that he and Casey get through to the finals.
"It was tough for them last week and their routine wasn't very favourably received.
"Arlene Phillips said Casey couldn't keep up with him.
"Then she said Toby was a god - but only gave them six out of ten!"
The show is particularly important to Toby because the big prize could help him make his theatrical ambitions come true at last.
"The main prize is the chance of a starring role in a West End musical and a share of £50,000 so there's a lot at stake," said Bill.
"That's why it's important that people should realise Toby comes from Sheffield and get on their phone to make sure he stays in the contest."
To place your vote for Toby and Casey call 0901 1214006 or text 'Vote 6' to 63633. Calls cost 25p and at least 12p goes to Comic Relief. Texts cost 25p plus standard message rate, and 11p goes to Comic Relief.
