A NURSE is about to take her first dance exam after learning the art through a fundraising competition.
Lesley Bianco has not looked back since taking to the dance floor with husband Ted to bring in funds for the Hospice of St Francis.
She signed up to last year’s Strictly Learn Dancing, which saw the pair learn the tango and cha cha cha over six weeks.
They then had to perform in front of a judging panel and an 800-strong audience at Hemel Hempstead’s Sportspace.
The pair, who live in Aldbury, raked in around £1,500 for the good cause and are still dancing today.
“We have found a new hobby that we enjoy doing together,” said Lesley.
However, Ted did have his reservations to begin with and Lesley had to talk him into it. “He has surprised himself by how much he has enjoyed it,” she said.
Lesley, who has been an in-patient nurse with the Berkhamsted-based hospice for 10 years, decided to give it a go because she loves a good boogie at parties. And as an added bonus she found she lost weight too.
She said: “I have always loved dancing although I had never had lessons. If we went to an event I liked going up and having a dance.”
Lesley is due to take her first bronze dance exam, when she will perform the waltz and cha cha cha, this month.
Now the hospice is looking for a fresh batch of novice dancers to take to the floor for its 2012 event.
It is open to 10 couples who will be taught dance moves by professional teachers from Hemel Hempstead’s Baila-Cusworth Dance School over six Sundays from January 15.
They will then compete in a grand finale at Berkhamsted School’s Centenary Hall in Kings Road on Saturday, February 25.
Each dancer is asked to invite 10 people to the finale, which costs £15 per person and get at least £400 in sponsorship.
Lesley said: “Give it a go. It’s fun and is worth a try even if you think you have two left feet.”
To find out more, call the fundraising team on 01442 869555 or email fran.martin@stfrancis.org.uk
The closing date for applications is Wednesday, November 30. The event is only for non-dancers and couples who sign up together will get priority.