NOVICE dancers from the county are being invited to sign up for Strictly Worcestershire.

Producers of the black-tie fundraiser are seeking enthusiastic contestant couples of all ages to ‘strut their stuff’ as part of a dance competition.

Proceeds from the annual event, which is being organised by Worcestershire Ambassadors, will support mental health charities in Worcestershire.

This year’s show raised an impressive £32,000 for St Richard’s Hospice and Rory the Robot Appeal.

Julia Williams, executive producer, who participated in 2014 and 2015, said: “Our contestants will enjoy an amazing journey in the expert hands of professional dance teachers.

“Dancers will be made to feel a million dollars with professional make up, hair and spray tans – all we ask is that they bring bags of energy, commit to several months of training and leave everything out on the floor.”

Each Worcestershire based couple will perform two 2 – 2 ½ minute competitive routines in either a ballroom or Latin category.

At least one routine should be a classic, such as the tango or waltz. The other routine could be an alternative style – perhaps more theatrical, contemporary or a comedic sense to add to the show.

Professional dancers and established high-level amateurs are not permitted to enter. The idea is that all contestants start from a reasonable level playing field of never having competed before in any form of dance.

Casting their eye over the performances will be the judging panel comprising former trade minister Lord Digby Jones, veteran broadcaster Bob Warman, choreographer Jennifer Bennett Price and dancer/choreographer from Rushwick, Katie Love.

The winning couple will lift the prized glitterball trophy in front of an audience of 750 spectators at the Chateau Impney in Droitwich Spa on Thursday, May 23 2019.

Alan Dedicoat, the voice of TV’s Strictly Come Dancing, and BBC Hereford and Worcester breakfast show presenter Elliott Webb will return to host the event.

Worcestershire Ambassadors are looking for eight couples to fill the space in the competition. If you or anyone you know would be interested in taking part, contact Julia Williams at info@strictlyworcestershire.co.uk