Inspire Suffolk have launched a fundraiser with a difference – the Strictly Charity appeal.

The group have recruited candidates who will be trained to dance Strictly-style, before taking part in a competition in May, and now they’ve recruited some top judges as well.

First on the panel is Gary Avis – ballet master and character principal for the Royal Ballet. The second celebrity VIP judge is Lesley Dolphin – BBC Radio Suffolk’s Afternoon Show host. Alongside them will be Emma Hawley, head of Ipswich School of Dancing, and Terry Baxter, CEO of Inspire Suffolk.

The contestants are currently being trained at the Ipswich School of Dancing and will be partnered with an expert for the competition.

Mr Baxter said: “We are so grateful to Gary, Lesley and Emma for giving up their time to help us not only raise funds for Suffolk’s young people but also raise our profile.”