A HEREFORD cheerleading group impressed judges as a host of their teams qualified for the National Championships in June.

All 11 teams from 3Degreez who competed in a recent qualifier at the Newport Centre were placed in the top four while five of their teams won first place trophies.

In addition both solo and duet performances by team members won first place.

Coaches, athletes and parents also helped the Hereford club win the Spirit Cup for a second time, which is awarded for showmanship, cheers and support to other teams on competition day.

Katie Bowcott-Hall, one of the two head coaches said: “It was an amazing set of results for us, with the hard work of the athletes and the support of the parents paying off.

"The perception of cheerleading is often far away from the reality – it involves a combination of strength, gymnastics, dance, stamina and bravery as flyers are thrown in the air relying on your team mates to catch you."

3Degreez classes are open to any age with the youngest member being three years old, with the competition teams open to a range of abilities.

Ruth Litchfield, head coach added: “Over the years we have grown a strong base of members who can compete nationally whilst enabling people to take part in our recreational classes learning the basics of all things cheerleading, and have fun whilst doing exercise.

"We have a very strong ethos on team work and we have seen athlete progress over a number of years building their skills, as well as confidence."

3Degreez will be competing in the national competition at the of June, but more locally will be showing their skills at the Hereford Food Festival on June 8.