HIPS were wiggling in Worcester as 60 women lined up for a latin dance class to raise money for a city hospice.

Fund-raisers from St Richard’s Hospice tapped into a current craze for dance fitness class Zumba by holding their own Zumbathon on Saturday.

The women twirled and twizzled their way through two hours of upbeat music – raising more than £1,000 for their efforts.

Organiser Tricia Cavell said: “This is our first Zumbathon.

“We did it because it seemed popular among our supporters and volunteers.

“There are a lot of people who are experienced at Zumba and some here who are trying it for the first time.

“With sponsorship we already know we have raised at least £1,000 or more.”

Among those taking part was Sharon Boardman, from Pershore.

She said: “This seemed like good fun. It helps them and we have a good time.”

Zumba instructor Becky Caulton agreed to run the class after experiencing the hospice’s work first-hand.

She said: “My nan was diagnosed with terminal cancer last October.

“Sadly she lost her battle in June.

“She spent her final four days at the hospice.

“The work they do is just incredible.

”I don’t think people realise how hard they work and how caring they are.”

The hospice in Wildwood Drive, Worcester, provides free specialist palliative care for patients living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and supports their families.