LOCAL dance school Dance Mafia have just returned from Blackpool where, over the weekend, they competed in the UK and Ireland’s largest group dance competition at the prestigious Winter Gardens.

This is the event where all the best teams battle it out for major titles and a chance at a spot at the grand finals at Liverpool’s Echo Arena.

This time around, Dance Mafia took three teams with them: Lil G’s under 7 years, Maniacs under 12 years and the Fierce seniors as well as taking a team of 110 supporters made up of friends and family.

The competition was super tough and Coach Amyleigh Cavanagh said: “The sheer talent that I witnessed on that stage was outstanding the bar was set really high this year.

“For a dance school from our wee Three Towns, that has only been running for two years, to be a part of this is just amazing, these kids are getting opportunities and experiences that will last a lifetime.”

Also in attendance were TV stars Dance mums and over 100 dance schools over the weekend it was always going to be difficult but Dance Mafia definitely made a big impression and had fantastic results with all teams in the top three in their sections.

Lil G’s finished in 2nd place and the Maniacs and Fierce both finishing in top spot with the Maniacs receiving second place overall from the whole competition which gives them one of those prestigious places and means they qualify to compete at the grand final in Liverpool next year!

Amyleigh added: “I am super proud of these kids there hard work and dedication is a fantastic thing to see we really are a Dance Family, roll on Liverpool.”

Dance Mafia are looking local sponsors, if anyone is interested in helping please contact the Dance Mafia Facebook page.