STRUTTING your stuff on the dance floor is not something most of us would like to be judged on.

But that’s the reality for contestants in this year’s Strictly Oxford competition.

The city’s version of the BBC1 hit show Strictly Come Dancing launched at Step-by-Step Dance School in Headington on Saturday.

For many of the 16 competitors – ranging from city heart surgeons to business directors – it was the first time they had danced in years.

They will begin training with a professional coach on June 1 and perform in front of an audience for the finale at the New Theatre on July 21.

The event, in its second year, will raise money for care home Vale House. Last year’s Strictly Oxford raised £37,000 for the organisation.

One of the competitors, singer/songwriter Nikki Loy – pictured with Darryll Patrick – said: “I am really enthusiastic about it and I’m looking forward to it. I think it’s going to be great.”

But managing director of Newsquest Oxfordshire, Shamus Donald, said: “I am terrified – I have never learned to dance.

“I tried a few lessons in the last few weeks and cannot remember a single thing.”

To buy tickets for the event, visit newtheatreoxford.org.uk See tomorrow’s Oxford Mail to find out who the other contestants are.