Members of a dance group were left stranded in Germany on their way to represent England at an international dance event have described their nightmare.
Three dance teachers, seven students and two parents from Hartlepool were en route to Spain via Frankfurt Airport on June 23.
While in Frankfurt, however, the flight was suddenly cancelled and they were told the next available flight would not depart until three days later.
Their dreams of representing England at the Dance World Cup in San Sebastian where they would compete against 63 other nations, were quickly disappearing.
Read more: Owner's devastated after premises wrecked and hundreds of pounds stolen
The situation got worse when the airline said their luggage would not be released so they were unable to get a flight with another airline.
The group, from Val Armstrong School of Performing Arts, who were aged seven to 17, was then waiting for 26 hours before checking into a hotel.
The delay, however, also meant some dancers who had already arrived in Spain could not compete as the group dances could take place.
Read more: Revealed: This is the 70-year-old who had a banner flown over Darlington for him
Val Armstrong said: “It was so frustrating. We (the teachers and two parents) were trying to keep it together and be strong but the children were just absolutely in bits. They missed the opening ceremony which is usually the best bit to be honest.
“The children were just breaking down. It has also cost the parents a fortune. Thousands of pounds has been spent on the trip. Costumes had been made that didn’t end up getting worn.”
Val said she has been disappointed by the delays, and also the attitude of staff at the Lufthansa airline.
Read more: North East beauty queen raises thousands for children's hospice charity
The dance teacher went on to say: “When our flight was cancelled they told us we would be on another at 9pm, but then we got to the desk they said that one was full.
“We had been put on standby for a flight, but they said it could be Saturday or Sunday. Not impressed with the airline at all. I’ve been teaching dance and travelling for forty years and I’ve never encountered anything like this.”
As a result of being placed on standby, the group managed to secure a flight on Saturday 26 at 3am, just six hours before their performance.
Read more: The Darlington school which has ditched branded uniform for ties made from recycled plastic
They ended up winning Most Outstanding Group at the Dance World Cup.
Val said: “I'm so proud of them for their performances. They did such a good job and were very professional.”
The journey back, however, involved another 24-hour delay at Frankfurt Airport.
The group returned on Monday, July 4. Unfortunately, 12 out of 17 pieces of luggage are unaccounted for plaques and medals are now lost, which Val described as “probably the most heart-breaking thing about the trip.”
Lufthansa was approached for comment.
--
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel