STUDENTS at a Darlington school gave a winning performance at a recent dance festival.

Talented pupils from Hummersknott Academy won the overall title at the Darlington School Games Dance Festival, held at the town’s Civic Theatre last week.

The school was one of three secondary schools and a number of primary schools competing in the annual competition.

The troupe of 14 students, aged 11 to 16, worked overtime at the school’s dance club to choreograph and rehearse their contemporary dance routine, which represented the spirit of the games - passion, honesty, determination, respect, teamwork and self-belief.

PE teacher Dawn Pilbeam said: “The students truly represented the spirit of the games, demonstrating great passion, determination and teamwork to develop the routine to such a high standard.

“Taking part in such events increases the students’ self-belief and respect for fellow performers.”

For some, the performance will also count towards part of their GCSE PE, while others took part simply because they enjoy dancing.