I first met Gillian Barton and members of Ballet West when I was making the film "Mrs Brown". Gillian did the choreography and the company members and students danced in the ghillies ball scene. I was very impressed by their work on the set and asked them all about Ballet West. I thought it sounded fantastic, so much so, I agreed to become their patron.

I know ballet isn't something that people associate with me and they're always surprised when they see me in the audience, but I've loved ballet for a long, long time ever since my daughter took me to see "Cinderella" in London. I went along under protest but I was completely surprised and I've been a ballet convert ever since.

I think everyone should have the opportunity to see ballet and so I'm pleased to help this Scottish company who are making ballet available to everyone. Ballet West is also offering great opportunities to the young students who take part in the productions. I am sure that some of the students at the school are going on to great things and will really put Scotland on the international ballet map.

Billy Connolly