FURNESS Firecrackers are celebrating a hugely successful year, after going undefeated throughout the British Roller Derby Championship season.

The Barrow ladies claimed first place in Tier Four North of the championship, earning them promotion to Tier Three.

Angela Garnett, captain of the Firecrackers, was thrilled with the success the team have had this year in the high-impact fast-paced sport.

She said: “I can't really sum up in words how amazing this team is.

“They are an inspiration, they keep me going when I feel like I haven't got anything left to give.

“It has not always been easy, but it has definitely been rewarding leading the team over the last two years.”

The Firecrackers won four matches out of four this season, defeating Sunderland, Durham City Rolling Angels, Spa Town, and Durham Roller Derby.

They are one of a number of teams to have been formed in South Cumbria over the past few years, with the Barrow Infernos made up of male players.

Laura Newsome, who has represented the club for three years, said the spirit among the squad as a whole has been key to the success this year.

“We aren’t just a roller derby team, we are almost like a little family,” she said. “We all help each other and spirits throughout this season have really been high.”

Both the men and women's teams train twice a week at Park Leisure Centre, Barrow.

They are always looking for new people to join, and anyone interested is invited to attend a training session on Friday evenings – either to watch or to take part.