A newly opened Bury St Edmunds school rounded off its first academic year in style by winning a prestigious cheerleading competition.

The SAA Starlets, from Sybil Andrews Academy, at Moreton Hall, won gold in the junior pom category at Europe’s largest cheerleading and dance competition, Schools Out, held in Bournemouth.

Andy Prestoe, headteacher, said: “Under the tutelage of PE teacher Rhian Earrye, our starlets have had an amazing first year with cheerleading teaching them about team work, dedication and commitment.

“They have all worked so hard and deserve their success.”

Miss Earrye said: “The girls performed the best they have all year and it was clear that the endless hours of rehearsals paid off.”

The SAA Starlets were made up of Olive Dolby and Sophie Arbon (captains), Skyla Eldridge, Amy Underwood, Emily Savill, Beatrice Smith, Beatrice Colley, Lauren Edwards, Lauren Taylor, Louise Marsh, Molly Phillips, Chloe Campbell, Jessica Havers and Tiana Moss.