A DEDICATED Knutsford dance teacher was treated to a surprise celebration on her 70th birthday from more than 50 of her students.

Pupils and parents secretly gathered in the Civic Centre to surprise ‘much-loved’ ballet and tap tutor, Helen Bates, with unexpected festivities.

Helen, who has run the Helen Bates School of Dance for 50 years, was taken to the centre under the pretence that she was meeting an old friend.

She said: “It was absolutely fabulous. I have no idea how they managed to keep it from me, especially the little ones.

“The classes were packed on Saturday and I just assumed it is because of the Bank Holiday- of course, I didn’t twig.”

Over the years, Helen has inspired her pupils to pursue careers in teaching and performing both in the UK and across the globe.

She keeps in touch with current and former students via Facebook and says that some still pop in whenever they are in the area.

She said: “I have been here for 50 years now, so some of the children who come to me, their parents also came to me.

“It is like a big family. We are lucky to be in such a lovely area.”

Usually Helen teaches four days a week, but in the lead up to exams she holds classes every single day.

At 70 years old she insists that her motivation to give so much of her time is her passion for her job.

“It is an easy place to teach in, the children are absolutely fantastic. Yes- I think I will be continuing for a little while yet.”