The American capital will get a taste of Bermudian talent this autumn as a troupe of local majorettes travel to Washington for Veterans Day festivities.

Michee Barclay, a director of the Warwick United Majorettes and Drum Corps, said the group were thrilled and surprised to be invited to take part in the Veterans Day Parade on November 8, along with a field show the previous day.

Ms Barclay said: “It is both humbling and exciting to know that our performances have reached beyond Bermuda and that our work has been recognised internationally.

“The invitation is especially meaningful following our return to Bermuda Day Parade last year for our 50th anniversary.”

She said that she was contacted by the executive director of the 250th Veterans Parade Day and Field Show in May, inviting the troupe to take part in the celebrations.

Ms Barclay said: “We understand that videos of our performances were viewed online, which ultimately led to our organisation being considered for this invitation.”

While Ms Barclay said the invitation was unexpected, she said the group had performed internationally multiple times since her mother, June Bailey-Tuzo, founded the troupe in her back garden in 1975.

Warwick United took part in the Philadelphia Freedom Festival in 1993 and have appeared in parades in Chicago, Atlanta and Baltimore.

Ms Barclay said: “Each opportunity has allowed us to share the talent, discipline and unique cultural tradition of Bermuda's majorettes and drum corps with audiences beyond our shores.

“This year's opportunity is particularly special because, for many of our members, it will be their first time performing on an international stage.

“We are proud to give our members the opportunity to experience international travel, perform alongside organisations from around the world and, most importantly, showcase Bermuda's culture and our organisation's rich tradition.”

She said that more than 60 people are expected to take part in the trip, including chaperones and about 45 participating members, who range in age from 5 to 46.

Ms Barclay added: “Preparing for such an opportunity requires a significant commitment from our members.

“We are training weekly on Wednesdays at the Warwick Workmen's Club and hosting various fundraising initiatives to help offset the costs associated with this journey.”

• Those interested in supporting the Warwick United Majorettes and Drum Corps can make a donation to Butterfield account #0604150740018