A SWINDON dance teacher has won a top award in the Oscars of the dance world.

Maria Howse, travels the country as an examiner and teacher, but last week she was in Blackpool rubbing shoulders with stars like former Strictly judge Len Goodman as one of a select few people chosen for a coveted Carl Alan Award.

When she was announced as the winner of a freestyle title for teaching she was overwhelmed. “I couldn’t quite believe it. It’s still sinking in,” she said. “It is just unbelievable.”

The awards, brought in by impressario Eric Morley in 1953, have featured household names like Roy Castle, Bruce Forsythe and Darcey Bussell in the list of winners over the years.

Maria, who runs Cadley Dance Studios, was one of three shortlisted and went to the ceremony with husband Andy and parents Keith and Linda Howse. It was the second time she had reached the final.

“You get nominated by your peers and in some ways that makes it even more humbling, I guess.” She was also grateful to family and friends for the support they had given over the years.

The 49-year-old has been dancing since she was a child and teaching ballroom, Latin and freestyle dance for more than 25 years.

“I always knew I wanted to get into teaching from a young age. It is just so very rewarding and no two people who come through the door are the same.” Her teacher was Dianne Prince and after Dianne’s death she took over the school.

“I think I enjoy the challenge of teaching.” But she stressed it wasn’t all about preparing people for medals or competitions. “Lots of people want to dance socially. We have a lot of fun in our classes. Sometimes things can be taken so seriously and you lose the fun element of dancing.”

Maria has also been an examiner for the past 10 years – a role that has taken her all around the country.

Last year she was part of a group sent to Vietnam to teach enthusiasts in schools and even a military university. “That was a wonderful experience.”

She added: “I feel very privileged to have a job that allows me to travel the country and meet so many people.”