Strictly-themed dance competition raises over £66K for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice

Loyal supporters helped Dr Kershaw’s Hospice raise an impressive £66,174 - with monies still coming in - at its annual dance competition.

Inspired by the hit BBC show, Dr Kershaw’s Strictly sees amateur dancers compete to raise vital funds for patients and their families. 

This year’s winners – Asheleigh Carr-Russell and Luke Greaves – were one of eight couples showing off their moves in front of a celebrity judging panel. 

They wowed an audience of over 540 people with a routine inspired by the 1994 Hollywood comedy The Mask. 

Their rip-roaring dance to ‘Cuban Pete’ included outfit changes and visual effects, leading them to score perfect 10s across the board. 

Ashleigh Carr-Russell (pictured below) a team manager at ABCA Systems Ltd, said: “Taking part was such a buzz! The whole experience had such a great vibe: loads of laughs, good energy, and just a feel-good atmosphere from start to finish. Winning and raising money for Dr Kershaw’s feels absolutely amazing. 

“It is not just about winning; knowing it has all gone towards such an important cause makes it so much more meaningful.” 

Ahead of the event on Friday, March 13, the 16 dancers trained with local dance schools. 

Jayne Barnes Dance, Tighe Elite Dance, Amy Mackie School of Dance and Sarah Matthews Dance all gave up their time to create and teach the choreography. 

On the night, couples hit the dance floor at the glamorous venue Vermilion in Manchester, where guests enjoyed a two-course meal and performances to the theme of ‘Dancing through the Decades’. 

These included routines inspired by Elvis Presley, Spandau Ballet and Nancy Sinatra, alongside film and theatre classics like Chicago and Grease. 

Amongst the judges was Oldham Athletic owner Frank Rothwell OBE, who was a Dr Kershaw’s Strictly runner-up in 2025. 

He was joined by Coronation Street fitness guru Irene Estry, and Joanne Hadley, who leads the Union of Oldham Dance Troupes. 

Following a nail-biting dance-off, two members of the Dr Kershaw’s Hospice clinical team were crowned the runners-up, drawing raucous applause from the packed audience. 

IPU Manager Kelly Foster and Ward Clerk Ashleigh Giles performed to a ‘90s medley that included Whigfield, Gina G and The Spice Girls. 

Speaking on the night, Lisa Hagan, the wife of a former patient, recounted her touching experience of care at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice. 

She said: “The staff and every member of the ‘Angels team’ – as we refer to them – were simply wonderful in every single way. This wasn’t just with Chris, but with our family and friends too. 

“I can speak forever and a day about the staff; they were there at 3am when I was upset, with a cup of tea and words of comfort and wisdom. Everything at Dr Kershaw’s, as with everything in life, comes at a great cost. 

“Please donate as much as you can to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice whenever you can; their service is second to none, and it needs to be treasured by our community.” 

Joanne Penketh, Income Development Manager at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, added: “We cannot thank everyone enough for coming – especially our amazing dancers, dance schools, judges, sponsors and host, Ian Taylor. 

“Whether you bought a ticket, sponsored a dancer, donated an auction prize or volunteered your time, you have made such a difference – thank you.” 

The 2026 Dr Kershaw’s Strictly event was sponsored by Landlord Furniture Co., Grains Bar Hotel, Diodes and Monarch Metals. 

To register your interest in applying as a dancer or becoming a sponsor for Dr Kershaw’s Strictly 2027, visit www.drkh.org.uk/strictly.