A Strictly-style ballroom dance competition supported by a care home partner has raised more than £80,000 for a Dorset-based palliative care charity.
Forest Holme Hospice’s Strictly Extravaganza, which had headline sponsorship from Colten Care, involved months of practice by amateur contestants and culminated in a glittering finals evening on the dance floor at Poole Lighthouse.
The competition saw participants drawn from a public call for entries team up with professional dancers for rehearsals leading to live performances on the big night. Each contestant had a personal connection to the hospice.
An audience of around 350 people were entertained as an esteemed panel of judges from the dance world voted on which of the ten couples on show deserved to lift the glitterball trophy.
The panel included Jason Edwards, winner of Forest Holme’s inaugural Strictly Extravaganza in 2023, Alexandra Hixson, professional ballroom and Latin dance teacher, and Maxwell Saban, international ballroom dancer and author.
At the end of a keenly contested evening, begun with a three-course dinner, the winners were declared to be Tom Redman and his professional partner Diana Coojacar with a high-energy jive.
Tom danced in memory of his wife Clare, who was under the care of Forest Holme.
Staff from Forest Holme and Colten Care teamed up for a lively curtain raiser to start the evening, a Charleston group dance they had learnt in their own time.
And the event featured a raffle and silent auction, contributing to a grand total of £80,387 since the competition was launched last summer with an event at Colten Care’s Bourne View care home in Poole.
The funds will go towards enhancing a range of services at Forest Holme, including nursing and counselling services, complementary therapies and equipment.
Under the sponsorship agreement, Colten Care residents who enjoy dance had the opportunity to watch rehearsals, demonstrations and performances brought to their homes.
One in-home show, at Bourne View in November 2024, was performed by brother-and-sister dancers Oliver and Eva Beardmore.
Residents were treated to dances by the pair such as a waltz, Viennese waltz, cha cha and jive. “It was wonderful,” was the comment from resident Peter Prior.
Laura Davis, Colten Care Marketing & Communications Manager, said: “Strictly Extravaganza was an amazing initiative that showcased dance talent and raised vital funds for the hospice. It was a true celebration of community and generosity.”
Laura’s comments were echoed by Forest Holme Fundraiser Claire Cooper who said: “This event was truly magical – a night of joy, passion and community spirit that exceeded every expectation. To raise over £80,000 is simply phenomenal, and it’s a testament to the dedication of everyone involved.
“From the dancers and sponsors to our wonderful guests, each person played a vital role in creating this unforgettable evening. On behalf of Forest Holme, thank you for helping us make a real difference.”
