Pom Poms were at the ready as a new Putney cheerleading squad gave their first ever performance at the weekend.

The South West Tigers, who rehearse at Putney's St Mary's Church, were invited to the Race for Life on Sunday (June 26) at Richmond's Old Deer Park to perform a pyramid or two and show off their new cheerleading skills.

Squad members come from a mix of schools in Putney and other areas of south west London and after the weekend's success, they plan to perform in more community events within the next year and then look to enter into national competitions.

The Tigers' coach Emily Cardno, who is part of the London-wide Red Starz cheerleading school, is an ex-professional dancer and also worked as a cheerleader in India for the Indian Premier League Cricket.

She said of the squad's performance: "Everyone was delighted with how the performance went especially as for most it was their first performing experience and it was to more than 3,000 people - they did so great. The event organiser's have invited us back next year and the feedback in general was outstanding."

Those interested in joining the cheerleading squad should contact 07801886101, email redstarzcheerleaders@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.red-star-dance-school-putney.com