Dancers' '˜tango for cash' isstrictly for Strathcarron

The Denny facility, which support’s people with terminal illnesses including cancer, respiratory, heart and neurological diseases, has organised Strictly Strathcarron – an afternoon tea with a difference, at the Inchyra Hotel, Polmont on Sunday, May 1.

The event, which is open to couples, groups and anyone who wants to come along to support the cause, gets underway at noon and runs until 4pm.

Coleena Brodie, the Hospice’s events and fundraising organiser, said: “It’s going to be an event with a bit of sparkle. We have live entertainment from a Michael Buble tribute singer.

“We also have dancers competing in front of a panel of judges for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.”

Strictly Strathcarron will be extra special for one of the dancers who will be strutting her stuff on May Day.

Coleen said: “One of our former daycare patients Julie Reid had always said she enjoyed everything about Strictly Come Dancing and would love to get dressed up and give it a go herself.

“So I got in touch and she and her dance partner have now signed up for the Strictly Strathcarron dance competition.”

Grangemouth mum Julie featured in last year’s documentary Seven Songs for a Long Life by Dr Amy Hardie, which highlighted the daily work that goes on in Strathcarron and changed some preconceptions about what the hospice does.

The film showed how patients, including Julie, use songs and music – and the support of Strathcarron staff – to cope with their own mortality and remain vibrant and alive in the face of death.

The Hospice requires around £10,000 per day to continue to offer this level of support, so events like Strictly Strathcarron are vital.