Synagogues aren't normally the place for honing your footwork, but dance partners gearing up for the Dancing Strictly competition are using every opportunity they can to practise.

Natalie Grazer, 41, and Nick Blain, 46, will dance the cha-cha-cha at North London Hospice's Dancing Strictly contest next month.

Natalie, a healthcare consultant from Finchley, said she got involved with the hospice after it looked after her mother in law.

She said: “It’s an amazing organisation, and I am a big Strictly Come Dancing fan, so couldn’t resist the opportunity to take part.”

Natalie and partner Nick have been practising three times a week, with the help of instructor Joan at Dream of Dance, who is teaching them for free.

Natalie added that they have been practising in the foyer of the New North London Synagogue, in Finchley, of which they are both members.

She added: “The dance is extremely difficult. I have never done Latin or ballroom dancing before. I did ballet as a child, which doesn’t help. My first task is to master wearing high heels. If I don’t fall over wearing them, I won’t worry about anything else.”

They hope to raise £2,000 for the hospice, and have so far raised more than £700.

To sponsor them, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/NatalieNick