A MARRIED couple who were inspired to take part in this year's Strictly Worcestershire after watching a previous dance event are raising funds for a children’s charity.
Going into its sixth year, Strictly Worcestershire - organised by Worcestershire Ambassadors, is a charity dance competition inspired by the popular BBC show, Strictly Come Dancing.
Jason and Gaya Barnett, from HomeXperts Estate and Letting agents in Worcester, said: “We are willing to take up any challenge in life and we know as a couple we can achieve anything together. We work hard to achieve our goals in our business as well as personal life.”
Speaking about why the couple were inspired to put on their dancing shoes, Mrs Barnett said: “Dancing is just one of our many dreams in life as a couple. We always wanted to do dancing together but never got around to it – so we thought Strictly Worcestershire 6 is a great opportunity to start.
“Sat in the audience for Strictly Worcestershire 5 last year, we were so impressed about the dancers, lighting, costumes, music and everything in the glamorous event. It really inspired us to be involved when we were asked.”
The couple say they have been working hard to put on a good show for the event on May 23, adding: “It is definitely harder than we thought. We love having the time together away from the phones ringing and running around balancing a busy work and family life.
“Sometimes it is hard to run the family business, have a two-year-old son and other commitments in life and on top of these do Strictly Worcestershire too. With the help of our family and friends we grab every possible opportunity to practice.”
The couple’s chosen charity is New Hope Worcestershire, which is a specialist children's charity.
The charity works with families that have children with disabilities and complex health care needs by providing daytime care.
“We have a family member with two disabled children so have seen the struggles that people face,” Mr Barnett added.
All proceeds from the event, staged at the Chateau Impney, in Droitwich, will be donated to Worcestershire mental health charities in addition to St Paul’s Hostel and Worcester Community Trust.
To donate towards the couple’s cause, visit their JustGiving page.
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