Strictly for kids

SEQUINS and smooth moves will be the theme of the night this evening as supporters of a children’s charity take to the floor for their very own dance-off.

Ten couples have been training for three months for the Not So Strictly Come Dancing competition to raise funds for Rotherham charity SAFE@LAST.

They have been put through their paces by Judith Bennett, the mother of Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Darren Bennett, who runs the City Limits Dance Centre in Sheffield.

The couples will perform a jive and a quickstep routine in front of an audience of 450 at Sheffield City Hall tonight in a bid to take home the trophy.

A spokeswoman for SAFE@LAST said: "These brave souls have endured hours of practice, blisters and trodden-on toes, all in the name of charity.

"They are taking part to raise money to ensure that SAFE@LAST can continue to provide essential services to vulnerable young people at risk through running away."

The couples will have to impress a judging panel featuring SAFE@LAST patron and South Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Med Hughes, international ballroom judge Tony Bennett, the father of Darren Bennett, football referee Howard Webb and SAFE@LAST volunteer Sue Norton.

But the result will not be based solely on the judges’ scores, as the couples will gain points based on the amount of money that they have raised.

This is the second time that the charity, which provides a range of support services for young people, has hosted the event.

Back in 2008, founder trustee Hilary Massarella put on her dancing shoes and battled her nerves to compete in the showdown.

"I understand just how excited and nervous they will all be feeling this week," she said. "I would go so far as to say it was the most nerve-wracking thing I have ever done but absolutely brilliant fun.

"The trustees are tremendously grateful to everyone who has taken part in this year's event as the commitment from all involved is utterly inspiring."

Hilary said that following a hard 2009, the charity had some catching up to do this year.

"As you might expect in a recession many events raised less money than we had hoped, so we're really hoping that these 20 fabulous dancers may help us to catch up with the support of all their friends and families," she added.

"Every small donation helps us to support young people in our area in a big way."

To back your favourite visit www.safeatlast.org.uk/notsostrictlycomedancing.htm.