THERE were red, white and blue sequins galore when dance-mad youngsters performed at a major martial arts competition in Sheffield.

Children from ActiveDance, based in Radcliffe and Elton, donned Union Flag-inspired costumes to perform a Best of British routine at the WUKF (World Union of Karate-Do Federations) European Championships. Forty-three dancers, aged eight to 18, wowed the 2,000-strong crowd at the opening ceremony with a James Bond-inspired piece as well as a performance set to classic British tunes.

They also showcased their street and freestyle teams with a modern routine before the senior dancers performed a rock ‘n’ roll number at the Presidents’ Ball.

ActiveDance was invited by WUKF European president Peter Allen, who runs a martial arts school in Hardman Street, Radcliffe, after he saw his grand-daughter perform in a school show.

Nicola Cleaver, ActiveDance operations director, said: “We would like to thank Peter and his wife Anne for giving our pupils the opportunity to perform at such a prestigious event in such a professional arena. It was a very proud day for all involved.”