POISE, strength and athleticism were all on show at a competition attracting pole dancers from across the UK.

Technical ability and composure took centre stage at the fifth annual Solent Pole and Aerial Hoop Competition, which is aimed at promoting confidence.

Organised by the Southampton Aerial Arts School, people from all across the UK came to the event held at Thornden Hall to show the art form in pole dancing.

Head trainer at the Southampton school, based at Ashley Crescent, Sholing, Zorena Roe said the event is about empowering woman and getting rid of the stigma which surrounds this form of aerobics.

The 24 year-old said: “It is just a really positive way to keep fit.

“I have had people coming to classes who have lost a lot of weight and said they couldn’t have done it without doing work on a pole or aerial hood.

“I think it is something a bit different and it can really help a woman gain more confidence.”

More than 50 dancers were judged on their performance, costume, audience engagement and difficulty.

Students from the Southampton School Lauren Smith and Hannah Bignall both competed, which Zorena said she was so proud to see.

“We started this competition five years ago as a small thing at the studio and now it has just kept growing.

“To see our girls compete with the best in the country is fantastic.”