?A GROUP of girls from a Droitwich school have been successful in a national skipping competition.

The team of pupils from Westacre Middle School took part in the National Jump Rope Championships, held for skipping clubs from across Europe, at the Stratford-upon-Avon Leisure Centre, last month.

They returned with medals, despite being first-time competitors.

The event started early on the Saturday morning, with Lymara Lines, Georgia Andrews and Izzy Rollitt all competing in disciplines and freestyle routines.

Head coach from Jump Rope UK Rachel Rollinson said how well they had done, especially with their timing to music. 

The parents supporting the three girls were astounded at the level of competition and certainly received the skipping bug. Lymara came third in 30-second speed step after a close jump off.

Lymara and Georgia came second in pairs double unders. All three girls gained personal bests across all events.?

A special workshop was also held for more girls from Westacre's after-school Skipping Club to learn new skills.

They received coaching from different skipping coaches and worked with children from all over the UK and Europe.  

Fiona Hennessey, Girls PE leader and skipping club coach at Westacre, said: "The girls have worked extremely hard and took the competition in their stride. To come away with medals came as a huge shock as it was their first time. 

"I am a very proud PE teacher!"