Local European dance champions

Debi Pritchard, who runs fitness classes in Audlem each Saturday, has been celebrating as her son and his dance partner were crowned Youth European Latin champions over the weekend

AJ Pritchard, 19, a former Brine Leas pupil, and Chloe Hewitt, 18, beat sixty other couples to win the top prize at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool over the Easter weekend.

The pair had shot to fame two years ago after they were semi-finalists on 'Britain's Got Talent'. The big question now is are they on the way of one day becoming world champions.

AJ said: "This is probably our best title yet and winning this accolade has definitely put us up there as the one to beat. We came third last year so this has always been a big one on our calendar, but to win it is a huge bonus.

"The final is made up of six couples each dancing the cha cha, samba, rumba, paso and jive, and we won all five.

"The next major competition is the British open in May, all dancers from around the world come over to compete, then there is the international youth championships at the end of the year."

AJ and Chloe are the current Under-21 British National Latin champions and the Under-21 UK Closed Latin champions.

They have danced together for eight years and are coached by AJ's dad Adrian Pritchard, at the family's dance academy in Burleydam.

AJ's mum Debi Pritchard said: "AJ and Chloe have achieved the ultimate accolades in every step of their journey, however this Championship is one of the most prestigious titles in the world."

We understand that AJ and Chloe are currently looking for sponsors.

Also, if you fancy taking up Latin or ballroom dancing, do call Pritchards Dance & Fitness School on 01948 871304. It's just down the road at Burleydam.

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