Carol Said, “Back in the year 2000 I decided to hold a fundraising event for our local Hospice.  This event was going to be a small function in my own studio but as ticket sales soared to 600, I decided to move the event to the Borough Hall.  It was a ‘Strictly’ themed competition with Strictly Come Dancing’s very own Anton du Beke and Eric Boag.  I then went on to host more ‘Strictly’ themed events with adults and also ‘Strictly’ Salsa Kids involving the town’s primary schools; I think it important the young need to be educated about the good work hospices are involved in and to be involved in community work. The only way I know how to raise money is of course through dance – having danced for most of my life!”

Carol continued, “When it comes to funding, Alice House receives 23% of their running costs from the government and the rest needs to be raised through the local community and other fundraising events.  I, as well as the community, were upset to find out actually how little money the Hospice receives from the government and the staggering amount they need to fundraise to keep their doors open.  This was, and still is my personal goal, to help fundraise for our Hospice, one never knows when they will need their services.”

Everyone has different reasons for support Alice House, Carol continued and talked about what drives her to continue her support.  “I lost both of my parents to cancer and have been aware of the brilliant the Hospice does for many years. As well as the outstanding help we received from the Hospice carers, our family also received support from the Macmillan nurses. They were a tremendous help not only to my parents but to my whole family.”

Ecstatic- Adrian Dawson and Aimee McCready after winning Strictly Ballroom Dancing 2007

“Through the ‘Strictly’ events I have organised at the Borough Hall and small fundraising events in my own Studio I never imagined I would raise money to this amount.  I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart everyone who has helped me in the running of these past events. I won’t stop there – I will continually raise funds for our Hospice – onwards and upwards!”

Janice Forbes, Community Fundraiser at the Hospice said, “Carol’s support over the years has been wonderful and she has raised an incredible £35,500. We are really grateful to her for all that she has done, as well as taking the time to share her story with us. Her events have been the talk of the town and attracted some really high profile stars from the dancing world. We want to celebrate Carol’s kindness and success and remember all of the patients and families that have benefitted from her hard work. We can’t thank her enough and look forward to working with her again.”