DANCER Katie Gibson's 21st birthday was more memorable than most – when her boyfriend proposed to her on stage in front of hundreds of people.

The Burslem College student had just completed her routine at the 012 Dance extravaganza when her 20-year-old boyfriend Jordan Daws took to the stage to give her the surprise of her life.

Katie's dance group, Envy Dance Krew, based in Fenton, were last on stage as part of the eight-day show which features displays by 60 schools and companies.

The show, at The Regent Theatre, in Hanley, is now in its 11th year and will run until Saturday.

Katie, of Bentilee, said: "At first when they told me to come to the front of the stage they said it was because they wanted to sing happy birthday to me and after they finished I looked over and Jordan walked on.

"I didnt have a clue what was going on because I didn't even know he was in the audience.

"The day got better and better for me because at first, Jordan told me he couldn't make my birthday celebrations because of his work in Manchester and he surprised me in the morning by turning up.

"Then, after rehearsals he gave me a bunch of red roses and then to top it off he proposed.

"Obviously I said yes, I was so excited and we've already been talking about the wedding.

"I think we're going to wait until we have both finished university.

"My family were all in on it but I didn't suspect a thing, I was just so shocked."

The couple met almost three years ago at Stoke-on-Trent College when they both enrolled on a performing arts course.

Jordan, who lives in Manchester, said: "I wanted to propose on stage because it's where it all began for us so it was quite special.

"I only had three hours' sleep on Friday night thinking about it. I was really nervous.

"I'd been planning it a few months and I went through the process of speaking to Katie's dad before buying the ring before Christmas.

"I just know that what we have is special.

"We are not just in a relationship but we are best friends too and that's why I wanted to do it, because she is really special to me."

Katie's friends were as surprised as she was when Jordan got down on one knee during the show's finale, but dance teacher Faye Braxton was prepared.

The 28-year-old who has been choreographing Envy Dance Krew for more than two years, said: "Jordan approached me and told me what he planned to do.

"But I didn't tell anybody just incase they gave the game away.

"I made sure I put Katie in the middle for our final routine so she could come straight forward after the performance.

"I was just keeping my fingers crossed throughout the whole thing hoping everything would go to plan.

"I am very happy for them."