A five-year-old has become the national champion for solo Baton Twirling - less than six months after she began the sport.

Aaliyah Ord, from Minster, competed at the British Baton Twirling National Championships in Crawley.

She participated in five events across the two days, where she became the national champion in the micro tot solo, won second place for the basic strut and dance twirl, third place for poise and fourth place for pom fancy.

Baton twirling is a sport that uses the body to spin a metal rod for a well practised routine.

It has been described as being similar to rhythmic gymnastics.

Nicola Ord, her mum, said: “We are absolutely beaming with pride, as this is such a massive achievement especially as this is the first nationals she has competed in.

“Aaliyah only started competing in baton twirling events in December 2021 and less than six months later she won the national title.

“Aaliyah’s coaches and team also did very well with another member gaining a national title as well.

“Her school and teachers have been nothing but supportive of Aaliyah and her sport, and are constantly encouraging and engaging in everything she does.”

Aaliyah, a Minster-in-Sheppey Primary student, competes with the Artistic Baton Twirling and Acro Academy.

She began the sport in her mum’s footsteps.

It runs in her family as mum Nicola and her sister, Joanne, both started the sport when they were younger. Now Joanne has become a judge and coach.

Nicola said: “Attending training sessions with Joanne really inspired Aaliyah to give it a go.”

The baton twirlers train on a Sunday mornings at Swallows Leisure Centre in Sittingbourne, while acro lessons are based in Eastchurch at the Girlguiding HQ Hall.

Michelle Bennett, her foundation teacher, said: “What a fantastic achievement!

“Aaliyah confidently transformed from the shy little girl in class to a confident performer worthy of the big stage.”