A group of dancers and musicians enjoyed three, rather than five minutes, of fame by appearing on a TV show.

Bolton-based Appalachian Dancers were guests on the daytime BBC 2 series "Let Me Entertain You", hosted by comedian Brian Conley.

The group was invited to audition for the show by production company Lion TV after being spotted performing at dance festivals around Britain.

Group member, Margaret Ranyard, said: "Lion TV was looking for new and interesting acts and invited us to an audition in Manchester."

Filming took place on August 13 with the six dancers and five musicians - Poppy Weatherall, Clare Park, Janet Howard, Steve Ingham, Ann Nash, Keith Towers,Sophia Cottam, Margaret Ranyard, Phil Howard, Frank Park and Chris Nash - performing.

Margaret, who lives in Bolton, said: "Appalachian dancing is a lively style strongly influenced by traditional British and European step dancing. Dancers wear tap shoes and make a lot of noise and the musicians play instruments including the Appalachian dulcimer, guitar and fiddle."

Let Me Entertain You showcases new talent with performers appearing in slots which can last up to three minutes. The audience has buzzers which they press when they have had enough of a performance, which ends when more than 50 per cent of the audience has pressed their button.

The longer a performance lasts, the more money the performers raise and better are their chances of going through to future rounds.

Margaret said: "Although we didn't make a lot of money we had a good time during the filming and enjoyed our expenses- paid trip to London."

The group - ranging in age from 14 to 60 - practise on Wednesday evenings at Harvey Street Methodist Church Hall, Halliwell. Beginner classes start in the autumn. Ring 01204 842547 for more information.