NTI_DOWNS_DANCER_04

Downs Syndrome sufferer Beth Gardiner, who has overcome great adversity to now be one of most promising dancers in country. Proud parents, Mike Gardiner and his wife Judy experienced every expectant couple's nightmare when they discovered their baby girl had been born with Down's Syndrome. See NTI story NTIDANCER. But 20 years later their daughter Beth has defied all the odds and is now making a name for herself in the world of dance. Through sheer hard work and determination, the former Bilborough-based Oak Field School student has just become the first person in the country with the condition to secure a spot on the Centre for Advanced Training scheme. The programme connects young amateur dancers with professional artists and companies to further their careers. Beth now hopes to act as inspiration for other youngsters with a disability.