BIG-HAIRED dance superstar Perri Kiely wowed judges in the first episode ITV dive show Splash - and made the semi-finals.

The 18-year old from South Ockendon, famously known for being part of dance troupe Diversity, was described a “little dare devil” by the show’s coach Tom Daley as he performed a backwards somersault from the ten-metre diving board.

The performance won high praise from the judges and scored him an impressive 25 out of 30, the highest score of the night, and earned him a place in the semi-finals.

Members of Diversity, who were in the crowd to see their dance mate perform, stood on their seats and cheered as Perri jumped from the top board.

Perri, who revealed he can’t see the edge of the diving board when he takes off his glasses, couldn’t hide his delight with his performance.

After the show, the star tweeted: “I still can't believe it....bring on the @ITVsSplash semi-final. Now it's time to train, let’s do this.”

He then added: “I think that's enough excitement for one day but once again thanks for the support guys, I love you all, good night, much love.”

Also performing on the night was Towie star Gemma Collins, from Brentwood. The 32-year old performed a forwards pike from the three meter board, but only managed to score 18.5.

Joining Perri in the semi-finals is TV presenter Michaela Strachan.

The next episode of Splash airs on Saturday on ITV 1, where two more celebrities will win a place alongside Perri.