COUPLES who have dreamed of waltzing there way around the dance floor or lifting a glitter ball trophy have the chance to take part in a glitzy event raising money for charity.

Inspired by BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, the event is organised to raise funds for St Cuthbert’s Hospice.

Couples taking part will learn to dance over eight weeks before taking part in a grand finale in Gateshead in March. each bidding to lift their own glitter ball trophy.

Last year’s event was won by Suzanne and Nick Brown, from Durham, who took home the glitter ball trophy after completing a cha-cha to Bonnie Tyler’s Holding Out for a Hero.

Jade McArdle, senior fundraiser at the hospice, said: “Beginners are welcome and no previous experience is necessary at all. One of our couples last year didn’t even dance at their own wedding before signing up as a surprise Christmas present.

“It’s such a fun event and really is just like the TV show with our couples working with professional choreographers and even doing a behind the scenes video to be shown on the big screen at the grand finale.”

Anyone interested in signing up can call 0191-386 1170 or email Jade.McArdle@stcuthbershospice.com.

Registration is £30 per person and spaces are limited to 12 couples.

The finale will take place this year at the Lancastrian Suite on March 10.

All the money raised goes to St Cuthbert’s Hospice, which is based in Durham, and provides care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

For more information visit www.stcuthbertshospice.com.