Oliver and Eva Beardmore in action at Bourne View in Poole.
Published: December 9, 2024 | Updated: 9th December 2024
Ballroom fans at a Dorset care home were treated to a glittering evening of dance recently as part of the countdown to next year’s Strictly Extravaganza.
Organised by Forest Holme Hospice with Colten Care as headline sponsor, the event saw siblings Oliver and Eva Beardmore dancing a waltz, Viennese waltz, cha cha and jive to the delight of residents and staff.
“It was wonderful,” said Peter Prior, while fellow Bourne View resident Joyce Boswell added: “I used to dance like that. It was lovely to have such talented people come in and dance just for us.”
Oliver, a professional dancer from Bournemouth and a regular on the Strictly Come Dancing tour circuit, is coaching ten contestants for the Strictly Extravaganza finals at Poole Lighthouse in January.
Each contestant, drawn from the local community, has been paired with a professional dancer to receive lessons and rehearse ahead of the big day.
Joining the Bourne View residents for Oliver and Eva’s show were contestants Kerry Hay and Jennie Tofts.
Kerry, a solicitor at law firm Coles Miller, said: “I have a passion for dancing and rekindled my interest in tap dancing over the past year.
“As a probate solicitor, I have a strong bond with Forest Holme.
“I’ve helped numerous patients with wills during their final days and supported their families after their loss.
“Forest Holme does exceptional work, and I’m privileged to fundraise for their ongoing efforts.”
Jennie, who volunteers on a ward at Forest Holme, added: “I sadly lost my father to pancreatic cancer in 2013 when he was just 65 years old.
“Forest Holme provided invaluable support for my family during our most challenging times.
“Volunteering on the ward has become the highlight of my week.
“My father shared my passion for performing, and I believe he would’ve cherished watching me dance again and pursue what I’m truly passionate about.
“Every performance is dedicated to him.”
The evening at Bourne View was introduced by Sara Fripp, fundraising manager at Forest Holme, and Laura Davis, marketing manager at Colten Care.
Sara said: “Since our founding in 1994, we’ve cared for more than 30,000 patients and their families, with voluntary donations and corporate support both vital to our funding.
“We’re so grateful to Colten Care for partnering with us on the Strictly Extravaganza.”
Laura added: “We have many dance fans among our residents, and it was lovely to see those at Bourne View enjoying the exclusive performance by Oliver and Eva.
“It was a real treat ahead of finals night.”
Bourne View was also the venue for the Strictly Extravaganza launch party this summer, featuring a champagne and canapes reception.
On finals night, contestants will perform before a 350-strong audience and a panel of judges from the dance world – including Jason Edwards, the champion of a similar competition held by Forest Holme in 2023.
Tickets for the finals are available here.
