A TENTATIVE troupe of novice dancers waltzed their way through their first rehearsal for this year's Strictly Oxford.

The nervous group of about 20 contestants put their best foot forward on Sunday to start off their Strictly journey and learn their first few steps of ballroom dancing.

Everyone from primary school teachers to nursing staff were set to task jumping around for the jive and working up a sweat with the waltz.

Step by Step Dance School stages the event each year. Owner Andrzej Mialkowski said: "The first rehearsals were amazing, we have already learned half a routine for the American smooth waltz and the basic of a jive.

"Everyone as always turned up very shy and did not know what to expect but everyone left with big smiles on their faces and full of happiness.

"Everyone was really keen to ask about the next sessions and all about the show.

"It is also fantastic this year to be raising money for two charities right from the very young little ones up to the older ones."

The contestants now have eight weeks to learn and polish up their dance steps before the live show, which will be staged at the New Theatre in Oxford on Sunday, May 28.

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor will be on hand to judge the show, which for this year is themed on a 'Night at the Movies'.

It also means the novice dancers have eight weeks to turn their hand to fundraising, with this year's show raising money for both the Oxford Children's Hospital – which is celebrating its 10th anniversary – and Vale House care home, in Sandford-on-Thames, which specialises in dementia care.

Strictly Oxford 2016 raised the highest total yet of £45,000 for Vale House and since its launch in 2012 has donated more than £170,000 to the cause.

Mr Mialkowski added: "Also I would just like to thank Windmill Primary School in Headington for giving us the space to rehearse each week before the big show."

Oxford Mail reporter Naomi Herring takes on the Strictly challenge and talks about finding her feet in the first rehearsals.
“I opted in for the Strictly experience to both learn something fun and new, while raising vital funds for charity.
“I have written numerous stories about impressive fundraisers and the difference they have made, so wanted to try adding to that myself.
“I would never opt for a running event as my fitness levels are not up to scratch and I thought dancing was a good alternative.
“I am not sure I think the same after that first rehearsal – I went home exhausted after an ‘easy’ introduction to Strictly.
“Looks like this will be a challenge for my fitness as well as my feet!”