Frank nurses desire to dance

HE’S faced parachute jumps, zipwires and countless long distance walks.

Now great grandfather Frank Dobson will don his sequins for a charity dance with a difference.

The 66-year-old, who has 10 grandchildren and a great-grandson, will take part in Marie Curie Cancer Care’s sponsored dance challenge in memory of his mum Ivy Graham who taught him to dance as a teenager.

A Chance to Dance takes place at Manchester’s Midland Hotel on November 15.

Participants can try different dance styles while raising funds to help Marie Curie Nurses care for terminally ill people in their own homes at the end of their lives.

The event is open to dance novices and experienced dancers alike to take part in ballroom, latin and modern dance workshops taught by top dance professionals including reigning “Strictly Come Dancing” champion Camilla Dallerup.

Frank, of Selkirk Road, Chadderton, said “I’ve been supporting Marie Curie Cancer Care for over five years and have taken part in walks, zipwires and even a parachute jump and I thought this event sounded like a brilliant idea.

“I lost my mum to cancer 18 months ago and it was my mum who first introduced me to dancing so it seemed fitting to sign up.

It’s been 50 years since I had any lessons though, but I’m sure the steps will come back to me. I’d urge everyone in Oldham to join me. It’s going to be a great day and a fantastic chance to try to learn something new while supporting a wonderful cause.”

Hannah Taylor, local community fundraiser for Oldham added “We’re very grateful to Frank for signing up for A Chance to Dance and we challenge everyone in Oldham to follow him to the dance floor.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve danced a little before, you’re a complete beginner or you dance regularly

“The event is open to everyone. I’ve got two left feet but I’m still having a go.

“It’s about having fun, learning something new while raising money to help people affected by cancer and other terminal illnesses."

Participants pay a registration fee of £15 to secure their place and are asked to try to raise £100 in sponsorship for completing the dance challenge.

To register for A Chance to Dance, contact Hannah on 0161-255 2810 or 07798 638 127 or send an email to hannah.taylor@mariecurie.org.uk