AROUND 300 girls and boys descended on Swindon Academy this weekend for the World Irish Dance Association's British championships.
The Beech Avenue school's hall was alive with the sound of tapping dance shoes and the sight of permed wigs and heavy brocaded dresses.
Would-be world class dancers had to triumph at the British Open Championships if they wanted any hope of competing at the world championship next year.
Meabh Linnane of WIDA organised the weekend's competition.
"It has taken a lot of work. We started planning for it a year ago, finding a venue and booking our adjudicators," she said.
"It's brilliant today. It's fabulous when you see them enjoying it and the families are happy."
Asked for the secret to a good Irish dance performance, Ms Linnane said: "Timing with the music, turnout, crosses. You're looking for those elements within the dancer - and somebody who looks like they are enjoying the dance."
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