Dancers set to shine as ‘Willow Wood does Strictly’

WILLOW Wood Hospice is putting on an entertaining night of glitz and glamour in support of patients from the local community in its care.

Inspired by the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, ‘Willow Wood does Strictly’ will be taking over the George Lawton Hall in Mossley on Friday 11th October from 7pm until late.

Couples will compete in front of a live audience and a panel of judges, in the hope of being crowned the coveted title of the Hospice’s glitterball champion for 2024.

In the build-up to the big night, they are working with local professional dance schools to learn a dazzling routine to perform on stage.

The Hospice is still looking for one couple to get involved – it’s a great opportunity to learn a new skill with expert tuition and a fun way to raise vital funds for Willow Wood.

Each couple taking part is being closely supported with their fundraising efforts by the Hospice’s Fundraising team.

If you would like to sponsor any of the dancers, you can donate your chosen amount at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/willowwooddoesstrictly

Lisa Pye and Dave Egerton coupled up for last year’s event, performing a disco routine on the night to ‘Saturday Night Fever’ by The Bee Gees.

Lisa, Volunteer Services Manager at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “It was the best most challenging experience of my life but it made me feel really good.

“I was surprised by just how many people wanted to sponsor us. I would encourage anyone to give it a go or buy a ticket for what is a great night.”

Dave, the Hospice’s Maintenance Manager, added: “It was a fantastic experience and I enjoyed learning the dance routine. I had a great dance partner and we have become friends since.

“There was a combination of nerves and excitement on the night but knowing my friends and family were there to support me made all the difference. I’m really glad I did it, it brought me out of my comfort zone.”

The event will be hosted by Theo Mayne, who was a contestant in the first series of the hit BBC show The Traitors, and podcast host and celebrant Jane Valentine.

On the judging panel will be author, broadcaster and former politician Edwina Currie Jones; World Championship hip hop dancer and Team England athlete Alice-Jane Evans; Latin Steps world champion and dance instructor Aimee Bailey; and Latin Steps dance champion and instructor Sara.

Tickets for ‘Willow Wood does Strictly’ are £25 per person – which includes welcome drinks and canapes. They can be bought online at https://willowwood.org.uk/events/strictly/

The Hospice is also appealing to local residents and businesses for donations of prizes which could be included in the raffle or auction on the night.

Vanessa Murphy-Wood, Community and Events Fundraiser at Willow Wood Hospice, commented: “We are really excited about ‘Willow Wood does Strictly’, which promises to be a memorable night.

“We are very grateful to everyone who is supporting the event, especially our dancers who each have their own story about why they want to take part for Willow Wood.

“We hope as many people as possible from the local community can come along to the event and support our dancers, as well as patient care at our Hospice.”

Anyone who is interested in being a dancer or is able to help with prizes can get in touch with Vanessa by emailing vanessa.murphy-wood@willowwood.org.uk or calling 0161 330 7788.