Young Angus performers who were judged to be dramatically better than most Scottish schools have appeared in their second English finals.
After dominating the Rock Challenge competition’s Scottish finals, Arbroath High School were invited to compete against the best talents the north of England has to offer last year.
Organisers UK Rock Challenge asked the school to compete against eight English academies, art colleges, and ultra-talented Peterhead Academy in a northern “premier division”.
The school, which won the Northern Premier final at first time of asking, did not retain the main prize at Saturday’s event but picked up a plethora of commendations for excellence in choreography, performance skill, concept, drama, entertainment, and video performance.
Performers were also given solo awards — the Rock Challenge award for achievement in drug awareness, the Be Your Best Foundation award for healthy lifestyle, and the Be Your Best Foundation award for positive inclusion.
The event at the Grimsby Auditorium saw the West Lakes Academy of Cumbria become Northern Premier Champions.
Runners-up were Peterhead Academy with an “escape” themed performance, and St Louise’s College of Belfast came third.
The award presenters praised the overall high standard of performances.
High Sheriff of East Yorkshire, Mrs Gillian Drewry, said: “It was very enjoyable.
“I think the children are so enterprising with their dramas and they all seem to be aspiring to achieve something different.
“It’s an excellent event.”
Chairwoman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Caroline Fox, said: “I thought this evening was fantastic.
“I’ve seen so much dance this evening and it’s all been brilliant.”
Chief Constable Lee Freeman of Humberside Police said: “This is my third year here and again the standard is absolutely first class.
“I love how the schools taking part become involved with the whole community, it inspires and motivates young people to get involved and work as a team.”
