A POLE dancer said she was shocked to be approached by producers of hit show Britain's Got Talent and can't wait to appear on TV.
Emma Haslam, sister of world superbike star Leon Haslam, said she had a "Susan Boyle-like moment" when she wowed judges who at first looked uncertain about her performing.
Emma, 27, of Smalley, admits her 15-stone figure means people often have to look twice.
She said: "When I walked out and introduced myself, Simon Cowell screwed his face up, but when I did my first trick his face dropped.
"He nudged Amanda Holden who he was sat next to and I could tell they were happy.
"I was very nervous just going out in front of the judges and then knowing millions of people would be watching made it more surreal."
Emma, who runs her business, Emma's Pole Dancing, at Mansfield Road, Derby, was contacted by the producers to go down to the Apollo Theatre in London in February.
She said she is hoping to appear on this Saturday's show, but programme bosses are keeping tight-lipped about the schedule.
She said: "The judges loved it and I got four yeses and a standing ovation from the crowd. I think when I first appeared they thought I was a bit of a joke.
"But I proved a point that for pole-dancing you do not have to be a size 8 girl.
"I proved it can be a talent and is also good for fitness.
"I think I proved a point by getting through and 99% of the feedback has been excellent."
Emma said a highlight was meeting show presenters Ant and Dec.
She said: "They were really nice and spoke before and after I went out.
"It was a 12-hour day, starting at 8am, and there was a lot of filming, but it was great.
"Leon has been really supportive and gave me good advice about dealing with the reaction."
Unfortunately the judges were not impressed enough for Emma to go through to the live semi-finals but she is taking a lot of confidence from the performance.
She said: "I do not expect to do anything like this again but if the chance comes along then I will go for it.
"I was disappointed but I am just so pleased with how it went.
"I can't wait to watch it now."
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