'I'm proud I pole dance' - PHOTO+VIDEO

Forensic scientist Amy Cowles, 30, from Abbey Hulton, Staffs. took up the hobby five years ago and says pole dancing has changed her life. The previously shy and reserved self-confessed 'science-geek' said the activity gave her the confidence to come out of her shell.Now the flexible teacher feels quite comfortable gyrating around a pole in front of hundreds of people at competitions across the UK. Last month the lecturer at Keele University scooped first place to win at Miss Pole Dance UK in Capel, Surrey. She took the Semi Pro instructor category and has now set her sights on the professional title at the British championships next month.Amy said: 'I get an amazing buzz from pole dancing. 'I have seen big changes in my life since I started. I am much more confident around people. 'I have never been in as good a shape as I am now. I'm so much more toned than I used to be and feel far healthier. (dailymail.co.uk)Bakudaily.Az