Pavilion Dance held another successful ‘Strictly’-style fundraiser Business Come Dancing at Hilton Bournemouth’s Phoxtrott Ballroom last Friday.

After three months of blisters, sweat and tears, eight hopeful contestants took to the floor alongside their professional partners to dance the Charleston, Latin, tap and everything in between.

The annual event raises much-needed funds for Pavilion Dance – a charity which provides community health and wellbeing programmes for communities like Parkinson’s Dance and Shift, as well as local secondary schools.

This year, the charity set a fundraising goal of £20,000, and it’s already made £18,743 through table sponsorship, raffles, silent auctions, donations and contestant fundraising.

In the end, it was Sharon Drake of Heathland House Care Home and her partner Lawrence James who were crowned winners on the night.

Sharon and Lawrence (left), this year’s winners

“I can’t believe I’ve gone from being a non-dancer to actually winning Business Come Dancing,” said Sharon.

“I’m in shock, it’s amazing. To anyone thinking about it, just do it!”

Runners up were Jess Bain of Halo Design Associates with Char Morris, and Rachel Atkinson of The People Choreographer with Jazz Gritt.

“What a night,” said Rachel.

“The privilege of learning to dance with a professional, the joy of sharing the experience with others, and something that can’t be underestimated… the support from the Pavilion Dance family.

“Every one of you has been so welcoming and supportive. This has been the best thing ever.”

Jess added: “It was the most beautiful evening.

“The atmosphere in the room was electric, and I’m so proud to share it with every single one of you.

“Beautiful dances, talented pros and memories that will last forever. I didn’t want it to end!

“I’ve got the dance bug back, and that’s it forever now.”

Judging the contestants were local entertainer and incoming BourneFree chair Lea Martin; former Dorset Chamber president Caron Khan; Bournemouth Coastal BID manager Fiona McArthur; and Pavilion Dance co-chair Natasha Player.

The evening was hosted by Steve Harris of BBC Radio Solent.

Winners Sharon and Lawrence will be performing their dance again at Pavilion Dance’s Open Doors community event on 25 January 2025.

The charity is now recruiting for next year’s event. Those interested can get in touch with producer Cheryl at [email protected]

• Meanwhile, donations are still open at givey.com/paviliondancesouthwestlimited