Derry’s Strictly Kool Kidz to take to dance floor in aid of Hospice

A large group of Derry schoolchildren have volunteered to put their best foot forward to raise money for the Foyle Hospice.

The children have signed up for the Strictly Kool Kidz event taking place over the coming weeks..

The event is based on the hugely-popular Strictly Come Dancing TV show and gives the young people the chance to show off their dancing skills.

The dance fundraiser will be held at the Everglades Hotel on two consecutive weekends of May 6 and 7 and May 13 and 14.

All the money raised will be donated to the local hospice.

The Strictly Kool Kidz event has also been held in the past two years and has been hailed a huge success.

Michelle McGinn from the Foyle Hospice, who is organising the event, said it was a great boost to hospice, whilst also helping the children’s development.

“After the massive success of last two year’s Stictly Kool Kidz event I have decided to run the event again this year,” she said.

“Once again I have been totally blown away at the response from schools and their Primary 6 &7 children who wanted to participate in this year’s event.”

“The event aims to promote dance and healthy wellbeing amongst 10-11 year olds whilst at the same time raising the awareness and profile of Foyle Hospice among our young dancers.

“It is also hoped that by instilling a charitable mind-set in the children will mean that they will become more aware of the people in the community that need help and support and they may then go on in life to become volunteers or fundraisers for charities in their own communities.”

“Through this event we are also promoting cross community relations between the 15 local primary schools taking part.

“New friendships have already been struck up in the 8 weeks we have been rehearsing.

“The children will be rehearsing for a further 2-3 weeks before the big event night.”

Tickets for the dance nights at the Everglades Hotel cost £10 and are available from the Foyle Hospice.

Organisers are also looking for individuals or businesses who would like to sponsor a child at a cost of £25.

If you can sponsor a child or want more information contact Michelle McGinn on 02871359888.

Photo shows Zara Coyle and Tom Buchanan, one of the couples taking part in the event. (Photo - Deirdre Heaney, nwpresspics)