Pride of Guernsey: Ellie Mitchell

‘There are many awards we could nominate this amazing, giving person and her family for, including Angel of the Year and Overcoming Adversity,’ said Belinda Festivo. ‘Miss Ellie is not only a dance teacher but a role model and a real friend to all the students and families involved in Music Box, strongly supported by her father Mitch and brother Peter and friends.’

Lynn Graham said that Ellie’s level of passion and commitment, not just to dance but also to all the children, was inspirational.

‘All pupils and parents feel that they belong to a big family and this is down to Ellie. She’s enormously loved.’

Sue Lawrence’s two daughters are taught by Ellie.

‘They learn tap, ballet, Greek, modern and drama through the school and Miss Ellie really does put all the children first.

‘A big part of the school was Mrs Meg [Ellie’s mother], who sadly passed away in January after a very short illness.’

Sue organised for a dance trophy to be made in honour of Mrs Mitchell and collected more than £500 from all the parents.

‘I feel that kind of shows how much Miss Ellie and the dance school means to her students and their parents.’

Clare Bowden agreed. ‘Miss Ellie is a fantastic dance teacher and she puts no end of enthusiasm and fun into her dance lessons. She has been through quite a rollercoaster the last few months and has simply got on with it all and carries on.’

Belinda summed up the four women’s nominee perfectly: ‘With much love we thank you for all you have done for us and our children.’