DANCE troupe Tap Attack is kicking its heels up in celebration after winning a clutch of world titles against the odds.

Tap Attack, was competing against nearly 1,800 dancers from 19 countries, including the USA, Australia and Japan, at the International Dance Organisation’s World Tap Championships in Germany for the ninth time.

After a series of illnesses and injuries in the run up to the tournament it seemed that the adult team competing for the coveted formation title might not make it as far as the stage. But they made it in the end and managed to lift the prize.

The whole 42-strong team took first place in the production category with musical theatre piece inspired by Mary Poppins, while young dancers Kai Scanlan and Marcus May succeeded in defending their Junior Duo title for the third year in a row.

The pair also won medals in the Junior Solo section and Harvey Shulver won a silver in the Children’s Solo section.

Head coach Jo Scanlan said: “This year was possibly the hardest competition I have ever seen, every year each country gets stronger. There were truly exceptional performances from around the world.”

Tap Attack, which includes dancers from all over the UK in its ranks, won the formation contest in 2013 and 2014, but decided not to defend it last year.

“This year, our team seemed to have every obstacle thrown their way, but the spirit they have shown is truly commendable,” said Jo.

“They are a real inspiration and never once let anything stand in their way. I am very proud of how every dancer worked tirelessly to achieve the results they deserved.”

“As a nation and a team we’ve had another fantastic year, they’ve shown a great work ethic and determination to maintain our high standards and proving above all that hard work really does pay off.”

The UK team is filled by Tap Attack, a dance company comprising talented tappers from around the country between the ages of nine and 25. Dancers undergo an audition process for entry to training programs and then for selection for the team.

The World Championships held in Riesa are the largest official dance sport world championships. It first started 19 years ago and now boasts competitors from 40 nations.