DANCERS who didn't know a fox-trot from a tango five months ago have just won dance awards.

Successfully completing the International Dance Teachers' Association exams was a special achievement for the ten students who all have earning difficulties.

The group, which attends the Innovations Centre, a private care centre in Shildon for people with special needs, started classes at the Lee Green Dance Centre, Newton Aycliffe, in June.

On Sunday they impressed examiners by performing ballroom favourites including a waltz, square tango, and fox-trot. Jennifer Howe, a manager at Innovations, added: " I'm really proud of the group and they are thrilled to have passed exams."

Dance school principle Brenda Thomson said: "It is a real achievement for anyone new to dance, and especially good for people with learning difficulties."