DANCING queens and kings are ready to hit the floor to raise money for Bolton Hospice.

Couples taking part in the charity’s Strictly Learn to Dance challenge meet at Sandham’s Dance Studios in Peel Street, Farnworth.

Over the next 10 weeks they will be given free lessons in dance styles including rock ‘n’ roll, salsa and merengue, culminating in a dance-off at the Last Drop Village on April 20.

Maria Passarello, events manager at Bolton Hospice, said: “Out thanks go to all our enthusiastic participants who are now ready to compete to become the first ever Strictly Learn to Dance Bolton Hospice champion.

“We have a fantastic group of people who are willing to commit their time and efforts to, not only learning to dance, but also raising money for our hospice.

“They all seemed really keen and eager to prove they can be the stars of the dance floor and we wish them all the very best with their training that Sandham’s Dance School is so kindly offering free of charge.”

Dancers of all ages and abilities have come forward to take up the challenge but three more men are still needed to complete the line-up.

One of the contestants, Ken Wenlock, aged 69, from Farnworth, said: “I enjoy dancing and it’s a good opportunity to raise money for the hospice. I’m looking forward to it.”

Each participant must attempt to raise at least £400 for the hospice, which provides free, expert care for adults in Bolton who are facing life-limiting illnesses.

For further details, please contact Maria on 01204 663055 or e mail maria.passarello@boltonhospice.

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