MEET 79-year-old Terry Whitelegg, who is taking part in Bury Hospice’s Strictly Best Foot Forward competition.

While most people his age are enjoying a well-earned rest, Mr Whitelegg, of Cranham Close, Walshaw, is putting many who are decades younger than him to shame with his energy.

As well as working for the Daily Mail for 20 years, Mr Whitelegg has also spent time working in the hotel industry, as a driver instructor and even flying aeroplanes.

Now, the keen motorsport fan has decided to turn his hand, or maybe that should be foot, to ballroom dancing.

He said: “My wife Carol died at the hospice a few years ago and was looked after really well. Then two years ago, my good friend John Lisle was also taken care of wonderfully there before he died.

“Bury Hospice offer amazing support to families throughout Bury. I know first-hand how important they are.

“I thought I better do something and I used to dance in my teenage years and always enjoyed it, so I thought I would have a go.”

The competition pits 12 couples against one another, all of whom will undergo 12 weeks of dance lessons before the finale at the Longfield Suite in Prestwich on Saturday, December 9.

Competitors are required to learn the foxtrot, waltz, and quickstep, as well as a specialist dance chosen by each couple.

And, never one to shirk a challenge, Mr Whitelegg and his dance partner Angela Quarmby plumped for rock and roll.

So does he think he stands a chance against the younger competitors?

“We are hoping to win it! It’s going well and I think that the fact I did some dancing in my teenage years has helped me a lot,” he said.

“We are very good at the ballroom and I’m coming along well with the rock and roll.

“Angela is a lot younger than me and she is a real fireball. I have to gallop around to keep up with her.

“I like a challenge, though. I am still physically fit, even at 79.”

So far Mr Whitelegg has raised more than £500 towards the hospice.

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/terry-whitelegg.