Sunderland's support for 'two little toppers' Lily and Joseph as they survive first Greatest Dancer live show

Lily & Joseph took on a seaside theme for their first live routine.
Copyright: BBC/Thames/Syco Photographer: Tom Dymond — Lily & Joseph took on a seaside theme for their first live routine. Copyright: BBC/Thames/Syco Photographer: Tom Dymond

On Saturday, February 1, the Greatest Dancer contestants, Lily Straughan, 11 and eight-year-old Joseph Chow, had their home city’s backing as they performed live for the first time on BBC One’s The Greatest Dancer and they have made it through to the next round as The Queens and Ryan were eliminated.

Their Geordie dance captain Cheryl, of Girls Aloud fame, picked the pair as one of her top three acts and secured them their place in the competition's live rounds.

Not only did they do Cheryl proud, but they appear to have a place in the hearts of the people of Sunderland who shared messages on our Facebook page.

Sunderland has rallied in support of Lily and Joseph on The Greatest Dancer.
Copyright: BBC/Thames/Syco Photographer: Tom Dymond — Sunderland has rallied in support of Lily and Joseph on The Greatest Dancer. Copyright: BBC/Thames/Syco Photographer: Tom Dymond

Here’s a few things you said about the dance duo after the show.

Jennifer Moore said: “Brilliant, well done, you’re stars.”

Marion Carson commented: “These two are brilliant. Lovely personalities and so talented.”

Andrea Hanson said: “Aww they are amazing. Good luck.”

BBC Ones's The Greatest Dancer pair Joseph Chow and Lily Straughan rehearse at The Worx Dance Academy in Sunderland.

Nora Dorward added: “Super performance. You are both especially talented. Good luck for next week.”

Ann Simpson said: “Fantastic. See you next week.”

Brenda Casey commented: “Well done. Looking forward to seeing you next week.”

Michelle Cook added: “Two little toppers.”

Lynn Marie Green said: “Fantastic dancers. They will go far well done Lily and Joseph. Do Sunderland proud.”

Sylvia Simpson commented: “They were brilliant.”

Kimberley Morrison agreed: “They were fantastic. Absolutely brilliant. Looking forward to seeing them perform again next week.”

Catherine Parks said: “Amazing loved the dance. Looking forward to next week. Cannot wait.”

Allison Wilson added: “Well done. Keep voting for these two beauties.”

Competing to win £50,000, a chance to dance on Strictly Come Dancing and to become The Greatest Dancer, they will go on to perform a different routine with a different theme each week.

We can see more of Lily and Joseph on BBC One on Saturday, February 8 when the remaining ten acts will dance in the hopes of staying in the competition.