DANCERS are tripping the light fantastic in a glitzy Strictly Ballroom fundraiser for Weldmar.

Nine couples are rehearsing for the Strictly Come Dancing style extravaganza on November 23.

They are being put through their paces in weekly sessions before the final showdown at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park in Burton Bradstock.

Former Hollyoaks star Tamaryn Payne has been announced as the first of the judges, but other star names are to be announced soon.

She said: “I am very excited to be a judge for the Weldmar Hospice, as I am a fan of the BBC 1 show. Dancing is a passion of mine, having trained in ballet, ballroom, Latin and commercial hip hop too.

“I am by no means a professional dancer, however, as I believe even as a newcomer to dance, if you feel the music and give the performance your all, you can dance.

She added: “Weldmar Hospice does wonderful work and I am proud to be associated with them.”

The dancers are Jo Sharkey, Maureen Sengelow, Katie Pelaou, Diane Durden, Tina Hardiman, Trisha Lawford, Debbie Elsmore, Sarah Walder, Liz James, Jonathan Thompson, James O’Neil, Edmond Gomez, Ian Lawrence, Gus McKechnie and Lloyd Richards.

The dancers have been practising in couples, but the final pairings have not yet been decided. Each couple will choose their own song and dance for the final.

Weldmar events and challenges fundraiser Matt Smith said: “Everyone is really excited. We have nine couples and everyone is enjoying it.

“They are all in the same boat as they are all beginners and none have had dance experience in ballroom before.

“They are all getting very nervous and excited about the final.”

Tickets costing £8 each are now on sale and dancers are also collecting their own sponsorship.

Supporters can also buy votes, costing £1 each, on the night. They can vote for their favourite as many times as they like on the night.

Tamaryn, who is also appearing in the Jack and the Beanstalk panto at Freshwater at Christmas, is the first of the judges to be named. The final on November 23 starts at 7pm at Freshwater. Winners will be crowned on the night.

See www.weld-hospice.org.uk/strictly to buy tickets.