A MORRIS dancing group has whirled its way to success and been crowned 2017 champions.

Radcliffe Morisco's Morris Dancing Troupe brought home a haul of awards after competing in The Morris Dancing Academy (TMDA) 2017 Championships.

The Senior Morris Dancing Troupe won the end of season competition for their age group.

The girls were presented with a huge silver trophy, and each received a TMDA medal as well.

Leader of the group, Ruby Casement, did the team doubly proud by winning the Championship Trophy and Championships Leader medal.

The 18-year-old, of Crompton Way, Radcliffe, is responsible for guiding the rest of her team through the dance.

Troupe Principal Laura Whittle said: "We have won many trophies and medals throughout the year but this was the icing on the cake.

"We are thrilled and proud of our troupe, for putting Radcliffe on the map.

"We all had an enjoyable and successful weekend."

Mrs Whittle added: "We are also incredibly proud of Ruby for her achievements. If she goes wrong, all of the girls go wrong so she has a very important role."

The troupe had been practising for the competition every other week for the past four months.

They are also instrumental in fundraising for charities throughout the year, including Macmillan Cancer Research.

Mrs Whittle has been involved with the troupe, and morris dancing more generally, for some 45 years.

She now works alongside daughter Syliva Pendlebury, who trains the dancers.

Their latest competition took place at Pontins, Prestatyn, North Wales, between November 10 and November 13.

Training is available for children aged three and above, on Monday nights between 7 and 9pm at United Reformed Church Hall, 1 Lord Street, Radcliffe.