THE UK’s best breakdancers will be throwing down in Hereford next weekend, after one local b-boy vowed to bring hip hop back to the place where it all started for him.

Daniel Ovel aka Didge – who runs b-boy events across the country – opted for a taste of home for the prestigious R16 qualifier, declining big city venues in favour of bringing top name hip hop DJs and breakers back to The Jailhouse for the competition.

Qualifiers for the R16 World Finals – effectively a World Cup of breakdancing – have only been held in the UK once before.

At stake for those competing is an all expenses paid trip to Russia, to represent the UK in the European and Russian qualifier – and the opportunity to dance in the finals later this year in Korea.

B-boys will battle it out solo, round for round, with five judges from around the UK – all coached by breakdance legend Dyzee – scoring on Origniality, Dynamics, Execution, Foundation and Battle.

Among the list looking for a place on the plane to Russia is Hereford-born breaker Alex ‘Crazy Al’ Rowland.

Having earned his moniker for a unique style on and off the floor, Crazy Al, like Didge got his start with Hereford’s 2Faced Dance company.

And for the next generation of Hereford breakdancers, this event will be a rare opportunity to catch the country’s best breakers up close and personal.

All ages are welcome, with doors opening on May 10 at 3.30pm for around five hours of beats and action; the soundtrack coming courtesy of a live set from famed hip hop and funk DJ Khan Fu.

Tickets for the event cost £7, and you can find out more information on the ‘R16 Uk solo Bboy competition’ Facebook page.