Irish dancing gold for Leamington waitress

Tara Hart (centre) with her teachers Catriona Bucke and John Carey.

A Leamington waitress has struck gold on her debut at the 44th World Irish Dance Championships.

Tara Hart, 18, who works part time at Seasons Restaurant in Warwick Street, was part of the 15-strong team which took the honours for the Birmingham-based Carey Academy honours in the Senior Girls Figure category at the event.

More than 5,000 competitors from around the world took part in the championships at the London Hilton Metropole – held in the UK for the first time - watched by over 15,000 relatives, friends and dance fans.

Tara said: “It was a fantastic occasion and an incredible experience.

“The team won a ‘globe’ trophy and each member received an individual winner’s medal.”

Tara, a student at Trinity Sixth Form, also took fourth place in the Girls Under-19 team ceili event.

Pamela Iredale, co-owner of Seasons, said: “Everyone here is very proud of Tara. In fact, we were delighted to be given a sneak-preview of Tara’s impressive dancing talents in a display of Irish dancing at the restaurant to celebrate St Patrick’s weekend.”