SOMEHOW, I have been persuaded to take part in what is described as “the county’s most glamorous charity event” - Strictly Worcestershire.

I must admit, I am extremely nervous at the sheer thought of presenting my dance moves to a large audience and panel of judges. However, the overwhelming amount of support I have received so far outweighs any nerves.

It all started within a few weeks of me joining the team at Worcester News. Worcestershire Ambassadors contacted us and invited an enthusiastic employer to be a contestant on next years show.

My editor, Michael Purton, asked me to ‘take one for the team’ and represent the Worcester News at Strictly Worcestershire, on May 23, 2019 at the Chateau Impney, in Droitwich Spa.

It did not take me much convincing to agree to take on the challenge as I am always up for trying out new things.

With two left feet and absolutely no coordination, I thought it would be the perfect way to really test myself and see what I am capable of.

After meeting Julia Williams, the director of Worcestershire Ambassadors, I was even more motivated to get my dancing shoes on.

After a discussion on where all the money of the event will go, I was delighted to hear that all the profits will be donated to mental health charities based in Worcestershire.

Finding a dance partner was the tricky part. As I am only short, and by short I am talking 4ft 11 short, I had to be sensible with who I could ask to be my partner. I think we can all agree that it would look strange if I was to be tangoing with a man who is 6 ft tall.

I asked my close friend, Jack Tingle, to be my dance partner. Surprisingly, he said yes.

Jack and I have had two dance lessons so far, in which Sharon Tilki is teaching us. Until the event in May, we will have a two-hour lesson each week. Sure, this sounds like a great deal of practice, however I have realised how much there is to learn about dancing.

Most nights I practice what I have learnt in class to keep the moves fresh in my mind. I must be driving my household mad as all you can hear is unrhythmic footsteps banging on the floor.

We had a photo shoot a couple of weeks ago in which I was totally unprepared for. I ended up wearing my sister’s prom dress, as I currently do not own anything sparkly. A photograph from the shoot was posted last week announcing our participation.

Jack and I will be regularly uploading videos throughout our journey, so do check in and see how things are going.

The Strictly experience has been fantastic so far. I am not a glitzy or flamboyant individual usually; however, I have learnt to adapt and embrace the sequins and glamour.

To keep up to date with the event, visit Strictly Worcestershire 6 on Facebook.