A TROUPE of majorettes has celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Shefford Majorettes marked its quarter century at its annual meeting and awards evening on Tuesday, July 17.
The community youth group was first set up in 1987 by a local resident, Andy Smyth.
The aim was to provide an outlet for the energy and talents of the local children.
Each week a team of voluntary trainers provide the girls with a fun but challenging evening perfecting marching techniques and learning new routines.
These are then performed during the summer season.
The annual meeting was attended by family, friends and supporters including the town’s mayor, Paul Mackin.
He presented the award for best majorette to Zoe Warner.
The trainer’s award went to Natalie Palmer and the most improved majorette was Ellie Jones. Laura Mackie, who has been with the group for 12 years, was presented with an award for being the longest serving majorette.
Several other awards were presented including those for full attendance at this summer’s displays – and the prize for this was the recipients’ height in chocolate!
The troupe has around 30 girls and who meet on Tuesday evenings. They learn choreographed dances including skills such as baton and flag twirling, marching, pom-pom and mace routines.
They regularly perform at carnivals, festivals and fetes, frequently winning awards.
They were chosen as the Best Majorette Troupe at Bedford River Festival and the received the Best Troupe Award at Nuneaton Carnival.
They have won Best Troupe at Biggleswade Carnival for the last seven years.
The group meets at Shefford Town Memorial Hall from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Girls aged six plus can attend. Call Kate on 01462 647688 for more details.