A TOUCH of “Strictly” sparkle can be seen at Askham Bryan College as two lecturers prepare for their dancing debut in support of a farming charity.

Fiona Macdonald and Richard Heaton, from the agriculture teaching team at the York-based college, are swapping wellies for dancing shoes as they put the final touches to their toe tapping routine in readiness for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution's Strictly Dinner Dance.

On Saturday, November 11 the duo, cheered on by colleagues, will be hoping their cheeky Cha-cha-cha will catch the judges’ eye as they compete against five other couples to take the championship.

Fiona said: “RABI does such amazing work for the farming community, with all ages young and old, so when a friend mentioned it, it seemed a great opportunity to have fun and raise money for a tremendous cause. Neither Richard nor I have danced before but we’re loving it!” They will be dancing to the appropriately titled “Country Girl Shake it For Me” by Luke Bryan.

The evening has been organised by the RABI North Yorkshire committee and Sally Conner, Regional Manager for the North East, said: “We are delighted that Askham Bryan College is involved in the evening as it is so important that we work with the agricultural colleges. Askham Bryan plays an important role in the farming world and rural communities so we are thrilled that not only are they key sponsors, but Fiona and Richard are taking part and I’m sure it will be an amazing evening.”

The event takes place at the Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate and it is hoped that around £2,000 will be raised from the evening.