THEIR cucarachas wowed judges and their voltas are some of the best in the country - just some of the spectacular dance moves that helped one Hampshire couple win a national dance competition.

Elaine and Martyn Long put on their sequins and danced the other competitors off the floor to be crowned Closed Senior British Latin Dance Champions.

This is the fourth time the married couple's flicks and kicks have seen off some stiff competition at the National Championships in Bournemouth.

In true Strictly Come Dancing-style the couple had to perform all five of the Latin dances, the rumba, samba, jive, cha cha cha and paso doble and beat off competition from 39 other couples.

Elaine, 47, of Reeves Way, Bursledon, said: "It was a fantastic event and even though we have competed there before it was really exciting.

"We absolutely loved it and as we have managed to reach the final for the past 12 years, it was great to still be competing at the top."

The couple first hit the dance floor 21 years ago when Elaine decided that they needed a hobby. As she had always dreamed of being a dancer, it seemed the natural choice.

It took Martyn, 47, a bit of convincing before Elaine got him into a pair of dancing shoes but as soon as they began twirling, the pair have never looked back and dance has taken over their lives.

Elaine said: "Dance is now our life. We are both self-employed because it allows us more time to travel for training and competitions.

"All you see on Strictly is exactly what it is like for us during these competitions - all the nerves and tension - just like the show.

"I think Strictly has done fantastic things for dancing. Everywhere I go people ask me about the show.

"Darren and Lilia, two professionals from the show, were actually dancing at the championships and became professional Latin Dance champions."

Elaine and Martyn plan to return next year, with more fancy steps, to defend their title.