A quickstepping partnership waltzed their way to the national finals of a national dance contest.

Ron Golding and Carmella Centro, who have been dancing together for more than nine years, swept other entrants aside to be crowned winners of the London and East final of Anchor’s Strictly Dancing competition.

Mr Golding, 72, who lives at Ingleborough, retirement home, in Cavell Drive, said: “It was a lovely feeling and completely unexpected. Carmella and I really enjoy dancing and regularly dance with a ceroc group at All Saints Church in Whetstone.”

The pair is now representing London in the grand final at the Rivoli Ballroom, in South London, on October 16.

Judge Trevor West was very impressed with the dancing duo and said: “The judges were looking for the most creative dance skilfully performed by the competitors. The standards and enthusiasm were very high but Carmella and Ron were heads above the rest.

“This was fun but there was a serious aspect to this competition - raising money for national charity Contact the Elderly which holds tea parties every month for the over 75s who live alone.

“Anchor’s residents are fortunate as they are surrounded by friends and caring staff but those living alone can suffer from depression and social isolation because they endure weeks without having the opportunity to speak to anyone.”