THE Colchester Swans Ballet group has celebrated its latest milestone with an informal performance of an iconic ballet.

The group, which welcomes dancers of all abilities, enjoyed performing Giselle at the Mercury Theatre Rehearsal Studio to mark its fifth birthday.

Giselle has been described as a "haunting story of innocence and betrayal" and a "timeless tale about the redemptive power of love".

Group tutor Fanny Harniess adapted the ballet for her students in a shortened version of the ballet.

She said: "I wanted to give my students the opportunity to experience what it might feel like to be in a ballet on stage.

"They were fantastic, everyone was totally immersed in it, it actually gave me goosebumps to watch".

Colchester Swans follows the Silver Swans programme which was developed by the Royal Academy of Dance.

The programme aims at making ballet accessible to all regardless of either experience or age.

Fanny added: "Silver Swans is aimed at older dancers over 55 but is definitely not exclusive to that age group".

Classes are on Thursday mornings at the Headgate Theatre in Colchester.

For more information visit colchesterswansballet.com or contact fannyharniess@gmail.com.