Hartlepool dancer Ali Rasul praised by Britain's Got Talent judges

Ali and Grace wowed the BGT judges, and progressed to the next round.

Hartlepool dancer Ali Rasul was praised by Britain's Got Talent judges after appearing on the show with partner Grace Durkin.

The talented 16-year-old performed alongside his 17-year-old partner Grace Durkin, with whom he studies performing arts at Stockton Riverside College.

The duo appeared on the popular prime time ITV programme, performing a contemporary dance to a Sara Bareilles track, securing four ‘yeses’ from celebrity judges.

Ali Rasul in action on Britain's Got Talent with dance partner Grace Durkin.

The duo will now progress to the talent show’s deliberation round, meaning they are in with a chance to appear on the live shows.

Judges Simon Cowell, David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden all gave the talented pair their seal of approval.

Former Mis-Teeq singer Alesha Dixon said: “You are two of the most talented dancers we’ve seen by a clear mile.

“You are absolutely stunning together to watch.

“Skill level was insane. You were so in-sync, told a brilliant story. I was in awe of your talent.”

The pair first danced together last year and went on to take the lead roles of Peter Pan and Wendy at Stockton Riverside College’s Christmas production at Arc in Stockton.

Dancer, gymnast, and all-round performer Ali, a former pupil at High Tunstall College of Science studied dance with Debbie Barrass.

When he was 13, Ali bagged the starring role of Billy Elliott in the West End, performing an 18-month stint at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre, in front of audiences of more than 1,500 people.