Grangemouth highland dancer wins 25th championship title and a hat-trick in Corby
A young Grangemouth dancer won her 25th Highland dancing championship at the weekend.
Alyona Stephenson secured the milestone win at the Central England Open Championships in Corby at the weekend – and it was her third time of bringing home a title from that competition.
The Moray Primary pupil has won the 7 and Under 12 Championship title three times now and her win there in 2024 was her firs ever championship win at the age of nine.
The competition attracts dancers from all over Scotland and England and is the first championship of the season.
Neil Devoy, treasurer of the Highland Dancing Teacher Association of England, said: “This was the fourth Central England Open Championship and we are delighted at the support from dancers, especially those from Scotland.
"It’s a pleasure to see dancers returning and new dancers entering the championship each year.
"The Highland Dancing Teachers Association of England congratulates Alyona winning her 25th title at the Central England Championships.”
Alyona, who is now 11 and in P7, said: “I love Corby, everyone is so friendly and supportive. It will always be special because it is where I won my first championship, but to win the same trophy three years in a row is extra special.
"It was a big entry in the age group this year, which was great to see.”
Alyona was also reunited with the 7 and Under 12 Nationals trophy, which she first won in 2024, and secured again this year.
She added: “It’s nice to win the nationals trophy again too, because last year we forgot my other outfit so I couldn’t compete for it!”
Proud mum Jennifer said: “How else would I want to spend my birthday weekend than driving to Corby and back and spending time with dance friends.
"It’s a busy weekend but always fun.
"The championship will always hold lots of special memories for us and hopefully we will be back in 2027.”
Alyona has been dancing since she was six and attends the Laura Gregory School of Dance in Polmont.
Dance teacher Laura Gregory added: “We will celebrate Alyona’s achievement in class this week with some cake, then get back to practising for the 2026 championship season.”
Alyona’s latest success follows a double championship win at Cowal Highland Gathering last summer when she achieved her 20th championship win.
Limited spaces are available in the Thursday night Polmont class for beginners, aged three and above, boys and girls welcome. Anyone interested should contact Laura Gregory on 07905670253.