RESIDENTS in Alcester and the surrounding district are being invited to take part in a series of vintage ballroom dances to raise money for the Shakespeare Hospice in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The independent charity provides expert palliative day care for people living in the area.

Throughout the year, seven dances will be put on by Stratford Dance Club at Stratford School, Alcester Road, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Several members of the club are from the Alcester area and in the past, the group used to hold sessions at the Greig Hall, prior to its closure.

Throughout the ballroom dancing events, a vintage DJ will be playing original 40s and 50s music.

The club’s events were previously organised by Peter Martin, aged 82, who recently stepped down from the position.

Now, senior police officer Donna Evans is set to take over the role.

Mrs Evans said: “The venue is the a performing arts school in the heart of the town and they too are keen to get involved in a community project that not only raises funds for an important local service but has the potential to be an inclusive community event bringing in a diverse group of people mixing age, dance genre and experience.

“Local dance teachers have committed to supporting the events with free dance lessons for beginners and experts alike at each event.”

She also added that if ticket sales were successful she would be inviting live bands to accompany the DJ.

Tickets cost £8.50 and are available by calling Donna Evans on 01789778183 or emailing donna@bucklehouse.com.