A young dancer wowed the judges to win a prestigious choreography competition in London. 

Stephanie Wright, 17, from Portland, beat out the competition to win the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) 'creation' choreographic competition at Bird College last month. 

Stephanie's mum, Melanie Wright said: "We are still pinching ourselves, obviously we are so proud of her." 

The competition, held in memory of Bird College Founder, Doreen Bird, is designed for dance students to develop and display their choreographic talents.

Stephanie entered the 'premier section' of the competition for dancer aged 16 to 18-years-old. 

Mrs Wright said: "Stephanie has been dancing since she was six, it's all she wants to do. She told me she's only ever happy when she dances."

Stephanie entered the ISTD competition by choreographing a 'quirky' modern trio and teaching the moves to fellow dancers Maria Polly, 17 and Emily McKay, 16. 

"She practised every day in the conservatory with no help at all - she even came up with the costumes," Mrs Wright said. 

The prestigious competition was judged by the college principal, Shirley Coen, and four West End performers. 

All three girls attend the Quay Theatre Arts Dance School (QTA) in Lynch Lane in Weymouth and together they danced their way to win the competition. 

Stephanie was awarded the Luis de Abreu Premier Award trophy first prize for choreography, the Christina Ballard Cup for Artistry in the premier section and was awarded a place at Bird College's summer school. 

She was also given the honour of presenting her dance teacher, Jill Tindale, with the Sue Passmore Award Trophy. Sue has taught Stephanie since she was six-years old. 

Stephanie, who currently attends the Thomas Hardye School, wants to be a choreographer when she is older and dance on the West End. 

Mrs Wright said: "With grateful thanks to Alison and Siobhan Harmon-Beglan and Kristy Cullen of QTA, Teresa and Stewart Polly and Caroline Mckay for all their help and support. 

"We are so proud of all three girls who would eventually like to audition for a place at Bird College."

The three girls attended the ISTD West End Workshop at the college before the competition.