Emily McGowan and Shannon Royal national cha cha champions

Emily McGowan and Shannon Royal

Emily McGowan and Shannon Royal recently achieved first and second place in the National Latin Dance competition, held at Blackpool’s Winter Garden entertainment complex.

Emily, who is studying dance, psychology, English literature and English language A Levels, has been dancing for 14 years; Shannon, who is studying art, dance and PE A levels, has been dancing for seven years.

Both took part in the regional qualifiers and were joined in the finals by 12 other competitors from the North West.

The Rochdale Sixth Form College students successfully saw off all competition and danced their way to the top spots.

Emily said: “I love taking part in dance competitions, but never dreamt I’d come first out of all those people.

"Our dance teacher Gabs is very supportive and is always there for help and advice.”

Shannon said: “I’m really happy with how the competition went, coming second place in a national competition is a massive achievement and has really boosted my confidence.”

Rochdale Sixth Form College dance teacher, Gabs Hill added: “Both Shannon and Emily are very talented dance students and I know they have committed a lot of time to their Latin dancing outside of their studies at Rochdale Sixth Form College. It is fantastic to hear how well they have done in such a prestigious competition, against girls that are much older. Hopefully they will continue to progress as performers and attain even more awards and goals.”