North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy presented representatives of the charity with a cheque for £11,244.46 following the two shows, which saw Royal Ballet principal dancer Reece Clarke return to his hometown of Airdrie for two special performances on the stage where he first performed when he was four years old.

The performances raised money for Guide Dogs through ticket sales and collections.

On the Friday before the shows, Reece visited Airdrie Academy, to talk about his career and gave pupils a ballet lesson.

Provost Kenneth Duffy thanked everyone who donated, he said: "It’s heart-warming to see so many people come together to support a cause that makes a real difference in people's lives.

"Reece Clarke’s return to his hometown was an outstanding success and I hope that this donation to Guide Dogs will help ensure that more individuals can enjoy the freedom and confidence that a guide dog provides."

The events were staged in a collaboration with North Lanarkshire Council and Albert Bartlett - the Airdrie-based food company who have had a strong relationship with the Clarke family for many years now.

Sandi Johnson, Community Fundraising Manager at Guide Dogs, added: “We are extremely grateful to be the charity beneficiary of Reece Clarke’s homecoming performances at Airdrie Town Hall at the end of August.

“Guide Dogs relies almost entirely on donations from the public to provide our life-changing services, supporting adults, children and young people with sight loss.

“Demand for our services has never been higher, so we would like to say a huge thank you to Reece, his Royal Ballet colleagues and to everyone at North Lanarkshire Council, who have given Guide Dogs this incredible opportunity to be part of such a special event.

“We are looking forward to working with the Provost again in the local area on issues such as pavement parking and really appreciate the interest that has already been taken on this matter.”