A rock and roll grandfather and a dancing queen are hoping to wow judges in North London Hospice’s Dancing Strictly grand finale.

Twelve couples will go head-to-head in the dancing contest while raising cash for the charity next month.

As each pair practise their best moves, competitors Valerie Henry, 40, and Lou Sidoli, 74, are hoping their quickstep will take them to the top of the leader board.

Despite having never met before the competition, the couple are already making headway on the dance floor.

Lou, a grandfather-of-five, first started rock and roll dancing four years ago. He said: “I find it uplifting to be on the dance floor and although I’m a bit nervous it’s for a great cause.

“A couple of my friends have had family members who went to the hospice so it’s a pleasure to be raising money for it.”

Valerie, of New Barnet, said: “I used to train in Latin American ballroom and formation. It’s amazing to be dancing again, especially with Lou – he’s such a great guy.”

Lou’s wife and Valerie’s husband and daughter will be cheering the pair as they take to the floor on Saturday February 9 at Millfield Theatre in Edmonton.

As well as mastering their dance moves, each couple has been tasked with raising at least £500 for the hospice, which supports people with life-limiting illnesses.

To sponsor Lou and Valerie visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserPage.action?userUrl=ValerieHenry&pageUrl=2