Nicola Blackwell
Meet Whipper. Cherry describes a short, but pivotal episode in the life of Whipper, a 16 year old growing up in the North East of England in the early 90's. We encounter Whipper at a difficult age - socially awkward and saddled with the seemingly impossible task of losing his virginity to his 15 year old girlfriend, Alison. This issue gnaws at him daily until he hears his mate Steve brag about his sexual encounter with an older girl called Liz. Whipper is instantly convinced that this girl is the answer to his long-standing problem. When his chance comes, though, he is led into a hilarious and utterly cruel final denouement that sees him learn some lessons about love and sex.
Set against the background of the 1984 Miners' Strike, 11-year-old Billy Elliot stumbles out of the boxing ring and onto the ballet floor. He faces many trials and triumphs as he strives to conquer his family's set ways, inner conflict, and standing on his toes.
