Strictly Come Dancing - Rochdale style

Strictly Come Dancing
Winners Lorraine Spencer and John Kean

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The Grand Hall at Rochdale Town Hall was the magnificent setting for a night of wonderful dancing as eleven couples from across the north west battled it out to become the Rochdale Strictly Come Dancing champions.

After three rounds, with the couples dancing the waltz, the foxtrot, quick step, cha cha cha, the samba and the rumba, John Kean and Lorraine Spencer, from Tameside, took the title.

The event was organised by Pam Ashton, with help from Colin Meredith and Neil Gibbons, in aid of Mayor Surinder Biant's chosen charities - Springhill Hospice, Petrus, Shopmobility, National Deaf Children's Society (Rochdale) and the Pakeeza Women's Group.

Mayor Biant said: "This is a wonderful event and I would like to thank the organiser, Pam Ashton, for all her hard work in making the night a success, she has done a fantastic job.

"We would like to make this a regular event."

Pam Ashton said: "This all started when I was on the Mayor's charity committee and it was suggested we start a new project. It has been a full-time job, but worth it.

"The town hall staff have been incredible, it wouldn't have been possible without them.

"I want to thank Neil Gibbons and Colin Meredith for all their hard work.

"It has been a sell out; we are very pleased."

Colin Meredith added: "This is the first event of its kind for Rochdale and I hope it will be the first of many.

"It's not just about the competitors, it's also about the people helping to make it happen and the people coming to watch and support."