JAMIE and Vanessa Le Tissier received the coveted Guiton Ambassador of the Year award last night. The dance duo, now ranked in the world’s top 20, were given the honour for bringing worldwide recognition to the island.

In presenting the award, Bailiff Geoffrey Rowland said the pair had brought international media coverage to Guernsey, particularly after reaching the quarter-finals of the Berne Dancesport championships.

Unfortunately the pair were not there to receive the trophy as they were out of the island taking a well-earned rest. Peter Symes, chairman of dancesport festival sponsor Yorkshire Guernsey, accepted it on their behalf.

‘It’s a great pleasure to be here representing Jamie and Vanessa while they are away,’ he said.

‘Dance has always been important in Guernsey. They came and brought household names to the island, particularly from the Strictly Come Dancing festivals.

‘They have travelled extensively and are great ambassadors for the island.’

Dancesport has grown in popularity in Guernsey as islanders take to the floor to learn ballroom and Latin American styles.

Before the awards, both said they were extremely proud to be representatives both on and off the island.

‘As chairman of Gada, it’s fantastic for our sport to be nominated,’ said Mr Le Tissier.

‘The award isn’t just for me and Nessie, it’s for the whole team. We’ve been putting Guernsey on the map in the dancing community and now have world class international dancers competing in the competition we organise here in Guernsey.’

The trophy is awarded to people who have gone the extra mile to promote Guernsey’s name beyond the island.

Guiton chairman John Averty said: ‘The Guiton Group salutes the many people who go out of their way to promote Guernsey off-island.’