A cheerleading troupe for people with learning disabilities has been given something to shout about.

The Bradford-based Jewels team have secured a place at the prestigious Future Cheer International Cheerleading Championships, in Bournemouth this June.

A victory there would see them go through to the USASF World Cheerleading Championships in Disney World, Florida next year.

The 20-strong squad have been perfecting their routines as part of a project being run with Bradford District Care Trust and Hot Ice Cheer & Dance Academy, based at Manningham Sports Centre, Bradford.

The team is now asking other local businesses to back their pioneering campaign.

Coach Bernie Nunn said: “The team has surpassed all my expectations. They have come so far in such a little time, and they are now correcting me on the specifics of their routine. “The team are doing all they can to raise money to cover transport, uniforms, pom-poms and accommodation, but it would be great if local businesses would add their support.

“The Jewels training kit is sponsored by Banana Moon, but we need to find someone to sponsor our performance kit.”

The squad has lots to offer potential sponsors. The Jewels will do everything they can to promote sponsors’ names within the district and beyond, in particular at the National Future Cheerleading Competition.

If you are interested in supporting the team, contact Helena Dale on 01274 490736, e-mail helena.dale@bdct.nhs.uk, or Andy Waller on 01274 323890, or andrew.waller@bdct.nhs.uk.