A PERFORMING arts academy dedicated its Christmas panto production to one of its former members who died aged 16 from Cystic Fibrosis.

Ffion Davies, from Greenfield, near Holywell, sadly passed away in August after battling the condition throughout her life. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body and affects around 8,000 people in the UK. 

Despite her condition, Ffion was a keen member of the Jaxx Martine's Popstarz Performing Arts Academy - and this year's panto was the first she wasn't involved in. 

The panto production of Peter Pan was held over three nights at the end of November at Rhyl Little Theatre, the second of which was dedicated to Ffion. 

Paula Duncan, who co-runs Popstarz, said: "Ffion joined us in 2016. The thing about Ffion, throughout all her struggles with CF, she never complained and just got on with it.

"In rehearsals, she was so committed and hated missing any classes. When she was on stage, it was as though CF didn't exist and she danced and sang her heart out."

Rhyl Journal: Ffion Davies (left) with other members of the performing arts academy.Ffion Davies (left) with other members of the performing arts academy. (Image: Popstarz Performing Arts Academy)

She continued: "This has been our first panto since 2019 and our first panto that Ffion hasn't been a part of - but we felt her in our hearts. She loved being on stage with us all. We dedicated the song 'A Sky Full of Stars' to her because she will always be our star."

Addressing Popstarz, Ffion's mum, Annika Thorley, said: "Thank you so much - Ffion loved Popstarz even if she was poorly she would dance her little heart out.

"I miss her so much we live in a cruel world. Thank you guys she loved you all so much."