National dance success in Blackpool for talented New Forest pair

TWO pupils from the Everton-based Charisma Dance Academy are thrilled to have been crowned the UK’s rock and roll champions at a national contest in Blackpool.

Amelie Shane (9), from Sway, and Sophia Edwards (5), from Lymington, hot-stepped their their way into the IDTA (International Dance Teachers’ Association) finals and came away with first place in their categories.

Amelie, who has been dancing for four years, won the individual rock and roll category for her age group.

Her mum Beccy told the A&T: “Amelie dances three times a week and absolutely loves it. She has taken part in lots of competitions before and won several events, so I don’t think she exactly understands the enormity of what she has achieved – to her it was just like the other competitions.”

Amelie secured her place in the IDTA finals after taking part in the south east regional qualifiers in May.

Beccy said: “As well as winning the individual rock and roll championship she was also runner-up in the under nine rock and roll pairs category with her partner Evie Mae.”

Amelie was supported at the event by Beccy and her dad Rob, along with siblings Bella (12) and Lottie (4).

Beccy said: “It is quite an expensive hobby with the lessons and the outfits that Amelie needs – but it definitely makes it all worthwhile to see her succeed at something she loves. But Lottie probably won’t be following in her footsteps – she prefers rugby!”

Also sharing the limelight was Sophia Edwards, whose mum Stacey is Amelie’s dance teacher. Sophia, who attends Walhampton School, took first place in the individual three-to five-year-olds rock and roll category.

Stacey said: “It was an excellent weekend. I am so proud of them both. They are such hard workers with amazing talents.”