Members of a dance group were left stranded in Germany on their way to represent England at an international dance event have described their nightmare.

Three dance teachers, seven students and two parents from Hartlepool were en route to Spain via Frankfurt Airport on June 23. 

While in Frankfurt, however, the flight was suddenly cancelled and they were told the next available flight would not depart until three days later.

Their dreams of representing England at the Dance World Cup in San Sebastian where they would compete against 63 other nations, were quickly disappearing.

The Northern Echo: When the dancers finally made it to San Sebastian, they did England proud. Picture: DANCE WORLD CUPWhen the dancers finally made it to San Sebastian, they did England proud. Picture: DANCE WORLD CUP

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The situation got worse when the airline said their luggage would not be released so they were unable to get a flight with another airline.

The group, from Val Armstrong School of Performing Arts, who were aged seven to 17, was then waiting for 26 hours before checking into a hotel.

The delay, however, also meant some dancers who had already arrived in Spain could not compete as the group dances could take place.

The Northern Echo: Picture: DANCE WORLD CUPPicture: DANCE WORLD CUP

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Val Armstrong said: “It was so frustrating. We (the teachers and two parents) were trying to keep it together and be strong but the children were just absolutely in bits. They missed the opening ceremony which is usually the best bit to be honest.

“The children were just breaking down. It has also cost the parents a fortune. Thousands of pounds has been spent on the trip. Costumes had been made that didn’t end up getting worn.”

Val said she has been disappointed by the delays, and also the attitude of staff at the Lufthansa airline.

The Northern Echo: The dancers made it to Spain, just a few hours before they were due to perform. Picture: DANCE WORLD CUPThe dancers made it to Spain, just a few hours before they were due to perform. Picture: DANCE WORLD CUP

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The dance teacher went on to say: “When our flight was cancelled they told us we would be on another at 9pm, but then we got to the desk they said that one was full.

“We had been put on standby for a flight, but they said it could be Saturday or Sunday. Not impressed with the airline at all. I’ve been teaching dance and travelling for forty years and I’ve never encountered anything like this.”

As a result of being placed on standby, the group managed to secure a flight on Saturday 26 at 3am, just six hours before their performance.

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They ended up winning Most Outstanding Group at the Dance World Cup.

Val said: “I'm so proud of them for their performances. They did such a good job and were very professional.”

The journey back, however, involved another 24-hour delay at Frankfurt Airport.

The group returned on Monday, July 4. Unfortunately, 12 out of 17 pieces of luggage are unaccounted for plaques and medals are now lost, which Val described as “probably the most heart-breaking thing about the trip.”

Lufthansa was approached for comment.

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