Hard work and dedication have paid off for Larne dancer Ella Steele after she picked up the title of World Champion in Irish Dancing.

The Royal Tara Dance Academy pupil, who is 16, won the title at the CRDM World Championships in Dublin on April 2.

A student of Larne Grammar, Ella has been dancing from an early age, with what began as a passion quickly growing into a lifelong commitment marked by early mornings, long hours of training, and countless sacrifices along the way.

For her family, the achievement is both emotional and deeply rewarding. “We’ve watched her put everything into this, and to see her stand at the top of the world is beyond anything we could have imagined,” her parents said.

“A special thank you to all her teachers at her dancing school, who always pushed Ella to achieve her best. She wouldn’t be where she is without their consistent support, love and courage.”