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Carnival inspires new Warminster twirlers' group
(January 21, 2009)Warminster has a new challenging, energetic, skilful and fun activity on offer to its youngsters as a new group of baton twirlers have begun training at the sports centre, writes Paul Macdonald
The Pink Starlettes has brought together seven youngsters led by 15-year-old coach Christina Stephens. "I have been baton twirling for four years," said Chrissy. "I've always wanted to do it."
She explained that she had been excited at the skill and entertainment that all ages of youngsters could provide when watching her first carnival go by.
Mum and troupe leader Christine Stephens is helped in running the brand new group by sponsor and co-troupe leader Penny Morton. "Absolute beginners are welcome from the age of five," said Christine who is pleased with the support so far.
"We are grateful to Jackie and Ian at the Bath Arms in the Market Place for their initial support.
"They let us use their function room to start which means we now have seven twirlers already and have got off to a good start."
They have joined the BBTSA which is the national twirling sports association and for the time being are training for two hour from 6pm on a Monday night in a squash court at the Kingdown sports centre.
They are looking for further sponsors to join Penny's Pantry which provides hot meals to the elderly. Currently weekly subs are £3 but they could go down when more join.
"We are lucky to have attracted our first seven twirlers as they all have considerable skills from their time at another troupe," said Christine.
"We would like to build on that. Youngsters with experience or none are welcome to pop along."
Christina can be contacted on 07521 288638 or they have a website at pink-starlettes.piczo.com
Pictured: Eight-year-old Jess (front) is joined by (l-r) Lauren, Tiana (kneeling), Debra, Jenna (kneeling) and Chrissy (coach) for their first ever photo-call