A COUPLE from County Durham have danced their way to victory in a Strictly Come Dancing-inspired competition for charity.

Clare and David Irvine, of Fishburn, near Sedgefield, wowed judges with their Charleston routine on Saturday as part of Strictly St Cuthbert’s in aid of St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham.

Mrs Irvine, a special needs teaching assistant and complementary therapist, said: “We never dreamed of winning and set out into the competition hoping to have a bit of fun, and raise some money for a great cause and we’ve certainly done that.”

A crowd of more than 350 attended the event at the at The Lancastrian Suite, in Gateshead, which raised almost £18,000.

Twelve couples from the region competed and received eight weeks free training ahead of the grand finale. To take part in 2019 call 0191 386 1170, ext 5.