A GLITTERING night for Bury Hospice saw their 2021 Strictly Best Foot Forward champs crowned on Saturday.

Rochelle Gardner and Martin Bailey walked away with the trophy after a dozen couples 'danced their hearts out' in front of judges, including Corrie pair Sally Carman and Joe Duttine.

And hospice fundraisers were left all smiles as the ballroom bonanza raised more than £45,000 for the Rochdale Old Road establishment.

Rochelle said: “I am beyond proud to have won the competition, that I dedicate to my oldest friend who would have been watching and cheering me on, I'm sure.

"Bury Hospice care for all those who need and their families and give so much support, and I am just so proud to be able to help give back for my friend, as they made her final days comforting.”

The event is led by hospice trustee and fundraising volunteer, Deborah Lisle, and sees 12 couples train across a range of dance disciplines. The grand finale, after 12 weeks of rehearsals, took place at Swinton Masonic Hall.

Deborah added: "The contestants have been so enthusiastic, dedicated and committed.

"Sally and Joe were warm and friendly and the contestants just loved them. We are so blessed to have amazing people we work with. We had a whole mix of contestants."

Rochelle and Martin also won the salsa heat, with Heather Alderson and Frank Priestly getting the bod for the quickstep and cha cha cha. Gemma Hardy and Gareth Monger won out in the Argentine tango.

Actor Sally, who is a hospice patron, said: “I absolutely love Bury Hospice’s Strictly.

"It is the most inspiring and heart-warming event. I urge everyone to keep donating to help these fab dancers raise as much money as possible.”

Joe added: "My hat goes off to all the fabulous contestants who left their comfort zone to put their best foot forward for Bury Hospice’.

People who would like to support Bury Hospice and the Strictly 2021 dancers, can donate on their JustGiving page until the end of January 2022 online at www.justgiving.com/campaign/burystrictly2021