St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham is seeking 12 couples to participate in a Strictly Come Dancing-style competition to help raise funds for the charity.

This popular event is a highlight of the charity’s calendar, with last year’s edition raising over £20,000.

The 2024 winners, Lyndsay and Rebecca, impressed the judges with their energetic Cha Cha/Samba fusion, dancing to “Something Kinda Ooo” by Girls Aloud and “Spice Up Your Life” by the Spice Girls.

Applegarth Academy of Dance and Dudman Academy of Performing Arts and Fitness will offer 10 weeks of free dance lessons to all couples, helping them prepare for the grand finale at The Fed in Gateshead on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Jade McArdle, Community and Events Manager, said:

“We’re looking for 12 couples – whether friends, partners, or colleagues – to take part in this fun and rewarding event. No prior dance experience is needed, as everyone will receive expert tuition and create wonderful memories along the way. It’s a chance to experience a bit of Strictly magic, all for a great cause!”

“We’d like to extend our thanks to Ann Haining, Kathryn Applegarth, and their teams at Applegarth Academy of Dance, as well as Lee Dudman and his team at Dudman Academy of Performing Arts & Fitness for their ongoing support.”

Dance lessons will begin on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

Expressions of interest are being accepted until Friday, December 6, 2025.

To sign up, email fundraising@stcuthbertshospice.com or call 0191 386 1170 to speak with the fundraising team.

Visit St Cuthbert’s Hospice Strictly event page to register.