ON SATURDAY night, 40 dancers will be taking to the floor to show off their finest foxtrots and best bossa novas, all in aid of Bolton Hospice.

After 12 weeks of keen fundraising and training, the dancers will be putting on their shoes to put their moves to the test and claim the crown in the grand finale of the hospice's Strictly Learn to Dance 2019 contest.

Last year, the event raised a huge £53,000 for the hospice, and the team are hoping to do even better this time around.

The twenty couples have been attending weekly dance classes hosted by A Touch of Class Dance Studio in Little Lever.

The pairs brush up on four dances over the three month fundraising period and will perform two for the judges on Saturday night.

Sitting on the judges table keeping a watchful eye over the competitors will be Bolton Wanderers legend John McGinlay, nicknamed “Super John”.

The avid hospice supporter and volunteer will be joined by former UK Ballroom and Latin champion, Marie Sandham. Member of the International Dance Teachers Association, David Brankley, will be taking a judging position.

The final judging chair will be filled by the new hospice trustee and former editor of the Bolton News, Ian Savage.

Maria Passarello, Events Manager of Bolton Hospice said, “Once again we are so proud to stage this show stopping event.

"Our fantastic participants and amazing dance teachers have committed their time to take on this challenge and raise thousands for Bolton Hospice.

"This is great experience for all our participants and a fantastic night of entertainment for their guests.

"Last year we raised £53,000 from this event and we are hoping to smash the target this year.”

The packed order of events for the final includes a professional dancing spectacle as well as an auction of a Porsche Boxster Experience, and a huge selection of luxury raffle prizes including BWFC hospitality tickets, overnight stay at The Whites Hotel and a variety of vouchers.

Ms Passarello said: "I would like to make a special mention to the wonderful ladies from A Touch of Class Dance Studios, Jenny, Kim, Kelly and Teresa for once again making this event possible.

"Every single year they dedicate countless hours to support our dancers and Bolton Hospice – their time is invaluable and we are so very grateful.

"Our Strictly fundraiser is highly acclaimed throughout the North West thanks to the standard of the production put on by the volunteers at Bolton FM and thanks to the venue."

Saturday's event has completely sold out. The dancing, taking place at The University of Bolton Stadium, is scheduled to start at 7pm, with the awards ceremony expected just before 11pm.