THE UK’s best breakdancers will be throwing down in Hereford later this month 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 hip hop DJs and dancers 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.

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 judges – all coached by breakdance legend Dyzee – scoring on originality, dynamics, execution, foundation and battle.

Among those looking for a place in 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 at 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 will open at 3.30pm on May 10 for around five hours of action, with ; the soundtrack coming courtesy of a live set from famed hip hop and funk DJ Khan Fu playing a live set.

Tickets cost £7.