MAJORETTE troupe Ipswich Gold and White Militaires marched their way home with a string of national awards.The colourful troupe twirled their way to an amazing 22 trophies from the United Kingdom's Federation of Majorettes National Final.

MAJORETTE troupe Ipswich Gold and White Militaires marched their way home with a string of national awards.

The colourful troupe twirled their way to an amazing 22 trophies from the United Kingdom's Federation of Majorettes National Final.

The highlight of the week was when Miss Gold and White Militaire Kim Smith, who 18 on Saturday, won the prestigious Miss Deputy United Kingdom Federation of Majorettes title.

Troupe manager Mick Watson said: "The girls worked very hard to attain these results and I must admit I am very proud of them and very excited with the final results for 2002.

"I am especially pleased with Kim's achievement. In 17 years we never got as far as deputy."

Out of 62 troupes competing during the week, The Ipswich Gold and White Militaires won the trophy for the best turned out troupe at the Easter weekend competition in Camber Sands.

The juniors came first in their group routines for basic, military and militaire marching and second for their flag.

The seniors got a third for their basic, second for military, third for militaire and a second for the flag. The girls also won several trophies for their solos and duos.

Meanwhile the parents enjoyed performing their adult novelty routine based loosely on a circus routine.

The Ipswich Gold and White Militaires is holding its sixth Open Competition on Sunday August 4 at Bournevale Social Club which attracts majorette troupes from all over East Anglia.