Leon Westcott, a quick-footed paramedic from the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), has achieved an impressive feat by being crowned the World Irish Dance Champion.
Leon, 23, from Stratton works at the Trust’s Malmesbury station, showcased his dancing talents, and emerged victorious at the prestigious World Irish Dance Championships held in Killarney, County Kerry.
Irish dancing, known for its rapid toe-tapping moves, has become more than just a hobby for Leon. He credits the demanding nature of this art form for helping him stay in peak physical condition, enabling him to save lives effectively as a paramedic.
Sharing his unique approach to fitness he said: “My job is very physical, lifting and supporting patients; and spending lots of time on my feet. So, I actually use Irish dancing to keep my fitness up.
“Running up to the world championships, I was in dance training five days a week, often straight after a long shift of caring for patients across Wiltshire.
Leon’s colleagues at SWASFT are thrilled to have a World Irish Dance Champion as part of their team, eagerly requesting glimpses of his Irish dancing skills. Leon added, “They’re always asking me to show them a bit of Irish dancing.”
Describing his experience at the World Irish Dance Championships, Leon expressed his delight at achieving a lifelong dream: “Becoming the World Champion has been an absolute dream of mine and one that I never believed possible. Even when I won, it took some time to sink in. The contest featured dancers from all over the world, from nations you wouldn’t expect to find Irish dancing.”
Dancing has been a part of Leon’s life since childhood, and he attended performance schools in London, Wantage, and Swindon. He has previously held significant titles, including 4th place in the world, British champion, and two-time Irish Open champion.
In celebration of his world-title win, Leon intends to host a fundraising party in July, with proceeds going to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance. According to tradition, the World Champion organises a celebratory event, and Leon’s party will not only mark his accomplishment but also contribute to a worthy cause.
Leon’s journey as a paramedic began after completing a Paramedic Science degree at the University of the West of England. He joined SWASFT as a newly qualified paramedic in 2021, combining his passion for Irish dancing with his commitment to saving lives in the community.
