There were tears of joy as Isle of Wight pupils celebrated success at a major dance competition.

Sandown's The Bay CE beat 106 schools to win first place in the Southern Regional Final of Dance Live at Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday, April 28.

They made it to the final after winning the regional heat on February 23.

The group travelled over to Portsmouth Guildhall, after months of preparation and perfecting of their dance routine.

Their entry ‘Save Our Rainforest’ was performed by 51 pupils, in front of an audience of over 300 people. 

Isle of Wight County Press: Mrs Steph Dunford with Year 6 pupils Sienna Pierce and Orlaith Burton collecting the £1,000 prize.Mrs Steph Dunford with Year 6 pupils Sienna Pierce and Orlaith Burton collecting the £1,000 prize. (Image: The Bay CE School)

Isle of Wight County Press: The Bay CE School students.The Bay CE School students. (Image: The Bay CE School)

Mrs Steph Dunford from The Bay CE School said: "When myself and our two Year 6 representatives, Sienna Pierce and Orlaith Burton, were on stage listening to the results, we could not believe we had won the final!

"It was very emotional and I couldn’t have been more proud of the children and team of staff who helped get us there.

"I would especially like to thank the local businesses that donated money to support us participating in the final as, without them, we may not have been able to attend."

Mrs Nina Lawrence, Head of School (Primary) said: "The whole school community is so proud of our Dance Live team for their outstanding achievement in winning the Regional Final.

"They all put in so much hard work and dedication to produce their entry and the win was thoroughly deserved."

Students from another Island school, Christ the King College, also took part on April 26.