A STRICTLY-inspired fundraising event, hosted by TV personality and Strictly winner Chris Hollins, has raised more than £53,000 for charity St. Luke's Hospice.

The popular fundraiser took place on Saturday, 16 March at the Brentwood Centre, where dance lovers, fans of Strictly Come Dancing and supporters of St. Luke's Hospice all gathered to witness a spectacular dance competition.

Nine couples took part in Strictly St. Luke's this year, each performing two dances for a panel of judges and audience of more than 600 in the hopes of winning the coveted Glitter ball trophy.

The winning couple was Theodosia Soteriou who was partnered with professional dancer Ian Sealey.

Chris Hollins, who won series seven of Strictly Come Dancing with partner Ola Jordan, said: "It was a pleasure hosting Strictly St Luke's and being part of such a wonderful evening. The dancers did amazingly well under so much pressure, setting their nerves aside to give us fantastic performances.

"Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who got involved all evening – the money you have helped raise really will support the important work of St. Luke's Hospice."

Kerry Chambers, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at St. Luke's Hospice, said: "What a special night! We sincerely thank everyone who helped to make the evening so memorable, including the wonderful dancers and judges, our volunteers, superb host Chris Hollins, Lynda King and the brilliant audience. Such an incredible amount was raised for St. Luke's Hospice and we are truly grateful."

Strictly St Luke's is organised by St. Luke's Hospice and dancer Lynda King, who runs Lynda King Dance Ltd. To date over £170,000 has been raised from Strictly St Luke's events.

Money raised at Strictly St Luke's will support the continued provision of specialist palliative and end of life care in our community.

Do you feel inspired to take part in Strictly St. Luke's? You can now register your interest by email, including your full name and telephone number, to [email protected].