FINAL preparations are taking place and nerves are kicking in for up to 24 amateur dancers who are looking to waltz their way to glory in Strictly Oxford 2017.

The contestants will be putting their best Strictly step forward for the first time on Sunday as the eight weeks of rehearsals begin.

But organisers from Step by Step Dance School are still urging more suave, swivel-hipped men to come forward to try their hand at winning the trophy as four places are still to play for.

First-time dancer Kieron Costello, won Strictly Bicester last weekend, and is calling on more men to sign up to what he describes as 'the best thing ever'.

The 38-year-old said: "My advice to any men would be don't knock it until you try it.

"For me it was just the best thing ever getting to know everybody and all the dancers were so nice including my partner Jan to work with."

Mr Costello was among those novice dancers who had to learn the steps from scratch but went on to win Sunday's live show with dance partner Jan Jordan.

For Strictly Oxford contestants will be learning the American Smooth Waltz and the jive with their professional partners, as well as a group dance.

There will be eight weeks to perfect their steps before the live show at the New Theatre Oxford on Sunday, May 28.

The theme for this year's show is a 'Night at the Movies' and will be judged by former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor who tangoed and jived with the likes of Patsy Kensit and Lisa Riley on the BBC’s flagship show.

Father of two Mr Costello added: "I was nervous at first about dancing in front of what was probably about 250 people and by the time it got to the final show I was still nervous.

"But it really was amazing, you just go with it and there is a just a buzz in the air.

"It is an experience you will keep with you forever.

"The togetherness with everyone is great, at Strictly Bicester it was like a little family."

Last year’s competition, which follows the format of the hit BBC show, was won by Oxford United's head of performance and analysis Dan Bond.

It raised more than £45,000 for Vale House care home, in Sandford-on-Thames, specialising in dementia care.

This was the most Strictly Oxford has ever raised since launching in 2012 and brought its total fundraising for the care home to more than £170,000.

For more information or to apply email jo@danceschool-stepbystep.com or find the event's Facebook page by searching for Strictly Oxford.