A THURROCK schoolgirl has scooped a handful of medals at the Blain Merrison Dance Festival.

Taylor Walker, who attends William Edwards School, Grays, also danced away with top marks in her age group in the cabaret performance and won the most promising performer trophy.

Taylor, 11, took part in the dance competition at James Hornsby School, Laindon, over five days from Monday April 8 to 11. She won five gold medals, three silver and one bronze.

Proud mum Nicola Walker, of Hogg Lane, Grays, said: "We're really proud of all she is doing. She has worked really hard."