THESE talented young people have cheered and danced their way from high school to representing their country in an international championship

The girls have been selected to represent the UK in the European Cheerleading Championships 2015 in Croatia.

They have now launched a fundraising campaign so they do not miss the opportunity of representing their country.

The achievement is made even more remarkable given the troupe was formed when the girls- many who had never been a cheerleader before- took it as an enrichment option at Kearsley Academy.

Coach Sarah Johnson said: "The troupe has gone from taking part in school, national and now international competitions in just three years.

"I offered cheerleading as an option. It was open to all. There were no auditions and they have never lost a competition since they starting entering two years ago.

"I always said they are not to worry if they don't win, but they do.

"The girls who have left school since are still part of it."

And since moving into the senior more difficult section, Mrs Johnson coach and choreographer performs with them.

The troupe only found out at the end of March they had been selected to represent the UK.

And now as well as learning another routine for the more athletic and challenging kinetics cheerleading, the girls are facing the mammoth task of raising £6,000 in just eight weeks, as the competition takes place in June.

They are organising fundraising events and are hoping sponsors and those who can donate any amount may step forward to help them take part in the high profile competition.

Mrs Johnson said: "The girls are so excited.

"I'm so proud of my girls and to be able to compete alongside them this year made me so proud.

"It would be amazing to be able to go to Croatia an represent the UK dancing with the girls I've coached for the last couple of years.

"I've watched them grow from young girls into amazingly talented young ladies."

Emma Wilkinson, aged 16, added: ''We've worked so hard on our routine this year. It would be amazing to be able to go to Croatia and represent the UK. It would mean all our hard work has paid off."

Ella Edwards, aged 15, said: ''To go from dancing at the schools competitions, then to compete at the nationals, now to be given this opportunity is unbelievable. I can not believe how well we have done as a team.''

Anyone who wishes to donate or sponsor should email sjohnson@kearsleyacademy.org