Touche, made up of Kirstie Bridle, Leanne Grice, Jodie Clout and Megan Clout, have reached the final of Open Mic 2009.

Best friends Kirstie and Leanne, singers in the group, originally formed Touche to enter the competition.

When they found out they could have backing dancers, they could not think of anyone better than Jodie and Megan.

Confident

The girls, all pupils at the Shoreham Academy, were a hit at the regional final in Hove last month and cannot wait for the national final at Portsmouth Guildhall on Saturday, November 28.

"The regional final went better than I expected," said 15-year-old Kirstie, of Annington Gardens, Shoreham.

"Obviously, I thought we were going to do well, but to hear them say your names and say you had got through was great.

"I think we are more confident about the next one, because we have been through it before and we know what to expect, but we are still really excited."

Amazing

Leanne, 16, of Old Shoreham Road, said: "I think having your friends with you takes some of the pressure off and adds some excitement.

"Hopefully, that shows in the performance."

Jodie has been dancing for nine years, taking part in competitions across the country, but Open Mic 2009 has been a new experience.

"It was amazing. We were just so happy to get through and it was really nice to do it with my friends, as well," said the 15-year-old, of Southwick Street, Southwick.

Excitement

Jodie's younger sister, Megan, is also part of the group and has been dancing for seven years.

"I just liked the excitement of everyone getting up there," said the 12-year-old.

"There were quite a lot of our friends and family there, so it was really nice seeing them, and the crowd was quite big."

Donna Clout, Jodie and Megan's mum, said: "I'm really excited about the final. It makes you feel quite proud as a parent."

Support

The girls have a coach-load of supporters, all wearing Touche T-shirts, travelling to Portsmouth to support them in the final.

"I'm really proud of them," said Leanne's mum, Stella. "Portsmouth won't know what's hit it when we all arrive."

"They are all very excited; they can't wait," said Kirstie's mum, Gillian, who thinks her daughter gets her musical talents from her grandfather, Peter Bridle.

"I am very proud and it is such a great experience for them."

Judges

More than 10,000 hopefuls entered the Open Mic competition nationwide.

The overall winner will record their own album in a professional studio, take part in a national tour and receive £25,000.

The judging panel includes former Steps member Lee Latchford Evans, Dane Bowers and Kylie Minogue's dance captain, Tim Noble.

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