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A dance group made up of women from Blackwood and the surrounding area struck gold at the National Entertainment Awards after impressing judges with a performance that earned them an instant ‘Golden Buzzer’.

The achievement came at the awards ceremony held at London’s O2 Arena on Sunday June 14, where the Dancing Queens performed a three-minute routine in the Community Impact category.

The group, which includes more than 20 women aged 55 and over, had qualified for the national finals after winning the Community Impact Award at the Welsh Regional Entertainment Awards in Swansea earlier this year.

Their London routine, choreographed by group teacher Kerry Difelice, wowed the judges and secured the coveted Golden Buzzer, guaranteeing the group a return to next year’s awards without needing to requalify through the regional competition.

The Dancing Queens rehearse at Studio 54 in Blackwood and pride themselves on being inclusive, welcoming women of all abilities, including several members with disabilities.

Judges were particularly impressed by the group’s commitment to inclusivity and the positive impact they have within the community.

The group performed to Raye’s song Where the Hell Is My Husband?

Ms Difelice said she was “over the moon” with the result and proud of what the ladies had achieved.

The National Entertainment Awards celebrate talent and community groups from across the UK, recognising the positive difference they make in their local areas.