Black Country bhangra group are the best in the UK

Gabhru Punjab De picked up the 'Best Dance Group' honour at the UK Bhangra Awards.

Formed in 1988 by six friends who had a passion for music and dance, the Smethwick-based group has more than 200 members, with some as young as five years of age.

Their name means 'Youth of the Punjab' and members are renowned for spectacular and colourful performances across the globe.

Manager and choreographer, Aki Sandhu, said: "We are known for pushing the boundaries of dance both artistically and conceptually.

"We are extremely dedicated to succeed and push ourselves to inspire a generation of performers."

Bindi Sandhu, group founder, said: "We started as six friends that had a passion for bhangra dancing. Not in our wildest dreams did we imagine that GPD would grow into one of the most successful bhangra dance groups outside of India to date.

"GPD would like to thank everyone who voted for us, the event organisers and everyone that has been supporting us," said Bindi.

The group has four age groups ranging from five to 10-year-olds, 12 to 20-year-olds and 21 plus.

Members consist of a range of dancers, dohl drummers, singers and musicians.

Since forming they have performed in countries across the world including, France, Turkey, Sweden, Germany and the UAE.

They hold dance workshops in schools to help students develop personal skills and increase their fitness levels.

In 2011, after receiving such high demand for their workshops, the group et up the 'Gabhru Academy' and they currently run dance classes every Friday at the Windmill Centre, Messenger Road, Smethwick.