A STRICTLY Come Dancing star is calling on people to get involved in a record attempt and take part in the world’s largest waltz.

Guisborough-born actor Mark Benton will be pulling on his dancing shoes to lead the way when the record attempt takes place in Saltburn in May.

Age UK Teesside has organised the event to raise awareness of the social isolation and loneliness felt by many of the elderly population.

Guinness Book of Records regulation requires there to be more than 2,000 couples waltzing simultaneously for five minutes and 20 seconds.

The actor said: “I am totally delighted to help Age UK Teesside by supporting this fabulous event. Having been a participant on Strictly myself, I know that dancing is for everyone and no matter what your age or ability, everyone can give it a go. I can’t wait to see Saltburn Promenade filled with people waltzing for this World Record Breaker.”

If successful, Saltburn would take the current title from Bosnia, which it has held since 2007 when 1,510 couples waltzed to victory.

Anne Sykes, chief executive officer at Age UK Teesside, said: “We have a host of activities running alongside this Guinness World Record Breaker, with a marquee in Valley Gardens providing an opportunity to develop new skills – you can even take part in Tribal Belly Dancing.

“The highlight of the day is definitely the World Record Breaker, we hope to rally people far and wide to give it a go and be a world record breaker - something they can talk about all of their lives.”

The attempt to break the world record will be on Friday, May 19 at 2pm but events will run from 10am to 4pm..

Local musician Jeremy McMurray has composed ‘The Teesside Waltz’ for the routine which is played by Jeremy and The Pocket Orchestra.

Councillor Sue Jeffrey, leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “This is a great project, and I look forward to being a part of it. I am learning my steps and will be there dancing on the day.”

If you want to be a world record breaker, and help Age UK Teesside secure the title, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘World’s Largest Waltz’.

For further information, email enquiries@ageukteesside.org.uk or call 01642-805500.