AN AUCHTERMUCHTY baton twirling group can boast eight British champions after success at the national titles in Portsmouth. Eleven children aged from six to 15 years from Calsay Baton Twirlers qualified for the British Championships through the Scottish Championships in Cumbernauld.

In the seven years and under section, Newburgh's Jess Birrel won the overall title, giving the club its first overall champion.

She also gained first place for poise and personality as well as two seconds and a sixth.

Zara Hoggan, of Auchtermuchty, achieved first placings in both basic and solo, a third and a seventh.

Rachael Carstairs placed fourth and sixth while Blair Elliot gained three top 10 placings.

In the older age groups, Chloe Gibb and Kayleigh Sturrock won two first placings each, with Kayleigh also achieving a fifth place.

Chloe's other results included a second, two fourths and a seventh while her sister Catherine gained third place.

Katharine Kitt achieved her first ever British champion title along with a third, fourth and seventh.

Her pairs partner Katelyn Gourdie received two second places and two third places.

Chloe-Marie McNaughton, of Freuchie, finished second, third and sixth and Rosyth's Carrie-Ann Downs had a third and two sixth placings.

Calsay Baton Twirlers are coached and trained by Emma Smith, who praised the girls for producing the club's best ever British Championships results.

"I'm so proud of all the girls, they have worked so hard all year and it definitely paid off with such excellent results," she said.

For more information on baton twirling, contact Emma on 01337 828506.