A YOUNG Dunstable man had a billion pairs of eyes watching him on Friday as he performed in the Olympic Opening Ceremony.
Swimming instructor Ashley Bryant was picked as part of a 1960s dance routine section of the spectacular, which was the brainchild of artistic director Danny Boyle.
Ashley, 18, of The Cedars, told the Gazette: “It was amazing, brilliant. I don’t think I’ve got over it yet.
“Danny Boyle is a really nice bloke. He was really nice to all the cast, but also really strict.”
Since his audition in February, Ashley, who studied performing arts at Central Beds College, has worked tirelessly until midnight and at weekends in rehearsals.
Ashley said: “On our way out of the stadium after the show we walked past every single athlete.
“We walked past Usain Bolt and everyone was chanting his name. That was funny. It was an amazing experience.”
Ashley’s mum Josie, who signed him up for the audition, said: “It took a lot of commitment from the whole family but it was worth it.
“We are massively proud of Ashley who has been through this mammoth journey.”
