AMATEUR dancers can slip on their glitziest shoes as a charity ballroom competition returns to Oxford.

After two years without Strictly Oxford, organisers Step by Step Dance School in Witney want to bring it back this year as an exciting annual community event.

Following the format of the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, locals will have the opportunity to learn how to dance for free in just seven weeks, before performing at the live show at the Christian Life Centre on Cowley Road.

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Yolanda Colucci, from Step by Step Dance School, who competed in the competition herself in 2017, is helping to organise the glamorous event this year in a bid to bring to it a ‘new lease of life’.

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She said: “We are looking for people from different businesses, backgrounds, and community groups in Oxford to create a fantastic event for everyone involved whilst raising a lot of money for the fantastic cancer charity, Something to Look Forward To, chosen after my friend was diagnosed with cancer last year.”

Since taking to the stage three years ago, Ms Colucci has started her own classes at Step by Step Witney and encourages all to have a go at something new.

She said: “In 2017 I was looking for a new focus, something I could do for myself that was different and fun when I was lucky enough to come across an advert for Strictly Oxford.

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“I had always loved dance but was never a performer - the thought of dancing in front of people scared the life out of me. But I decided to challenge myself and signed up anyway.

“I had the most fun, made some amazing friends and although still haven’t got over my fear of performing I had the best time and wish I could do it all over again.”

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Strictly Oxford is looking for couples to sign up, but individuals can apply too and organisers will pair them with a partner.

No previous dance experience is required to be involved and contestants will practise routines step-by-step at weekly rehearsals, learning different styles of dance such as the jive and the waltz.

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Couples will also perform a group dance at the live show, which will take place on Saturday, June 6.

Members of the public will be able to buy tickets to watch the dancing couples.

Each event is held to raise money for a good cause.

Both Oxford Children's Hospital and Vale House care home, in Sandford-on-Thames, benefitted from the funds raised in 2017.

Strictly Oxford's charity partner this year is Something to Look Forward To, which helps to improve the lives of families affected by cancer and cancer poverty.

The organisation brings communities together by working with individuals, local businesses, companies and corporates, who all donate gifts and experiences which are then matched to people and families in need.

Group rehearsals start on Sunday, April 19 in North Hinksey, from 4pm to 7pm.

To sign up, email stepbystep.witney@gmail.com.