A CHEERLEADING group based in Dursley wowed judges at a competition and walked away with two national awards.

Dursley Diamonds entered the International Cheerleading Coalition’s Welsh Open 2015 on Saurday, January 15, and their two groups each took home a winner’s trophy.

The two coaches of the group, Jess Efford and Claire Nadin, were filled with pride at their teams of youngsters, and said that the girls “executed their gymnastics perfectly” to come out on top despite tough competition.

The first group to the floor was Diamonds Junior, which has girls aged from six to 11. They prevailed through the pressure and beat competitors by just two points, with coaches commenting on the sharpness of their performance.

Miss Efford, of Dursley, said “The girls were absolutely thrilled. They had worked so hard and really deserved their win.”

Next to compete was Dursley Diamonds Seniors, with ages ranging from 12 to 17, who kept their nerve despite one girl sustaining an injury during training.

Miss Efford continued: “Again Dursley Diamonds executed their gymnastics perfectly, hit all stunts and really enjoyed themselves. The seniors rocked and came in first place as well

“We’re so proud of all of the girls and really couldn’t have asked for anything more. We push them hard to be the best and they pulled it off beautifully.

“I’d like to give a special shout out to Haley Miles, Lauren Macey and Chloe Ebbs, who did a lot of extra training in a short space of time and did brilliantly.”

One member of the group Meghan Hall, 12, of Dursley, said: “Winning was the best moment of my life. I still can't believe It happened. It's like a dream come true.”

Dursley Diamonds train on Monday evenings at Lister Hall from 5.30pm to 6.30pm for Juniors and 6.30pm to 7.30pm for Seniors.

If you would like to join a competitive cheerleading squad head along to a try-out session on Monday, February 9. Only a few spaces are available.

The trials will be held at the usual training times, with younger groups in for the first slot and those falling into the senior category afterwards.

Please email info@ultimatecardio.co.uk or visit www.ultimatecardio.co.uk where you can see videos of the teams in action.