James wins in Malta!

James Ireland, a member of the Kingsdown School Wheelchair Ballroom dancing team took part in the Maltese Open Dance Spectacular on 29th November 2008. He was partnered by the BBC Blue Peter presenter, Helen Skelton, as part of a Blue Peter Challenge.

James and Helen were entered in to the beginners 'combi' section of the competition where one dancer is on their feet and the other in a wheelchair. They performed a Waltz, a Samba and a Quickstep for a large audience including the President of Malta and the British High Commissioner.

Teams from all around the world including, Brazil, Russia and Poland took part in the spectacular. James and Helen gained 1st place, narrowly beating the Polish team, and were presented with their award by the President of Malta.

BBC Blue Peter, who sponsored James, televised the story of James and Helen's preparation, and their performance in Malta on Tuesday 9th December 2008.

James and the rest of the Kingsdown Wheelchair Ballroom Dancing team will be competing at the Dutch Championships in Holland at Easter, thanks to a £5000 donation from St James's Place. However, the team are looking for a permanent sponsor to enable them to participate in other events and would like to hear from anyone who can help.

Photos: James wins in Malta

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