IT'S a Cinderella story that may not have a happy ending.

Danielle Johnson is all dressed up but with no ball to go to - because she has been barred after being caught smoking at school.

The 15-year-old had saved £1,000 towards the leavers' ball at Kings' School in Winchester, buying a yellow chiffon dress, tiara and new shoes.

She was looking forward to the glittering event with all her friends, but has been barred by the head teacher for breaking the rules by smoking on site.

Danielle, described by her mum as a rebel, last night said she was unaware her misbehaviour carried the threat of exclusion.

She said she had apologised to the head teacher, Ray Bradbury, and was hoping for a last-minute reprieve.

However, the chances of that look slim.

Mr Bradbury told the Daily Echo: "The ball is a privilege and not a right.

"We tell pupils that if they misbehave they won't go to the ball. They knew clearly what would happen.

"The kids know I'm good for my word. If you disregard that you should accept the consequences.It is a great shame and I do feel sorry for her, but she has to accept the consequences of her actions."

Mr Bradbury, who during 20 years at Kings' School has build a reputation as a strict disciplinarian, said this year "several" children had been barred from attending the ball, compared with none in 2003 and one or two in most years.

Danielle's mum, Sue, of Olympic Way, Fair Oak, near Eastleigh, said: "My daughter is a bit of a rebel and she has been suspended in the past but I think it is wrong to ban her.

"The kids should leave on a good note, not a sour note."

Danielle said: "I really do want to go.

"I was caught smoking last month but I didn't know that would mean I would be stopped from going.

"I have worked on a check-out at Sainsbury's in Badger Farm for a year to save up."

See Echo comment page 12 of tonight's Daily Echo