A DANCE team from Bromsgrove are "over the moon" after being crowned champions at the Dance World Cup.

An acro troupe from Rising Stars Academy of Dance and Gymnastics represented England at the competition in Telford last week.

The academy on Station Street, run by Yvonne Rowley, offers dance and gymnastic classes such as cheerleading, commercial, musical theatre and ballet.

The team entered two acro routines in the competition, which is a style of dance that includes gymnastics such as walkovers, cartwheels and tumbles.

Both routines saw the girls bring home prizes: 'The Greatest Showman' won bronze and 'Fire and Ice' came in top and bagged gold.

Yvonne Rowley, owner of Rising Stars Academy said: "To be placed in both, we're over the moon, we didn't expect it at all.

"When they announced the result I was crying, I turned to my other teacher Bryony and we looked at each other, we were gobsmacked.

"I don't think the kids realised they had won!"

The Dance World Cup was scheduled to take place in Rome this year but due to the Covid pandemic the organisers made the decision to hold the competition in Telford.

Teams from around the world took part, either in person or via video link.

Yvonne added: "It's the biggest thing we have ever done, we only did it for the experience as it's such a wonderful thing to be part of. We got to the carry the flag, it was an amazing experience."

The girls only started preparations for their routines in May due to disruption caused by Covid, and are looking forward to defend their titles in next year's competition.

Rising Stars Academy is set to restart lessons on September 4 and new members are welcome to join.