BURY Hospice's Lockdown Dance Challenge has got off to a flying start since it launched- with Coronation Street star Sally Carman now joining in as a judge.

Sally, who stars as Abi Franklin on the cobbles, is a Patron for the hospice and previously helped judge the hospice’s Strictly Best Foot Forward competition in December.

She said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be able to help Bury Hospice in this fun virtual dance challenge.

"I’m constantly amazed by their incredible work within the community of Bury, and how they have continued helping patients and their families against such a difficult set of circumstances posed by COVID.

"I love a good dance and cannot wait to see the entries."

Rachel Wallace, Head of Fundraising and Communications for Bury Hospice, said: “We are thrilled to bits that Sally is getting involved as a judge – she is a fantastic supporter of Bury Hospice and brought sparkle to our Strictly event in December.

"How exciting this is for everyone taking part to know that their dance will be go before the eyes of a TV star as well as our lovely Mayor and Mayoress of Bury.”

The hospice's 'Dance With Me Tonight Lockdown Dance Challenge’ is a virtual fundraising dance challenge to help with funds due to a reduced income steam.

Local dance teachers have performed six sets of a two minute dance routine to Olly Murs ‘Dance with me Tonight’, sung by local singer James Cockerill, inviting people and their families to get their dancing shoes on.

Deborah Lisle who is leading the competition said: “The challenge opened on Thursday May, 14, with the first of the six short dance routine videos released once a day on Bury Hospice’s website – you can catch up on the previous videos - and take on the Lockdown Dance challenge in your front room or garden!.

Deborah concludes: “ The last video will be posted on Wednesday, May 20- then practice, practice, practice as you have a week to send your videos in to Bury Hospice for Sally Carman and our Mayor and Mayoress to judge."

Prizes for those taking part include free dance lessons and Amazon vouchers.

For more information, visit buryhospice.org.uk.