STUDENTS at a dance school in York have kicked off a year of fundraising in aid of Alzheimer’s charities in memory of a much-loved family man.

Members of York Dance Works danced in their pyjamas for their first eye-catching stunt and have further events plans.

Ballet dancers who train on Saturdays left their usual dance attire at home in favour of their pjs, with outfits ranging from bunnies to superman.

Principal Catherine Finta lost her father, Tony Kendall, in January, after he battled Alzheimer’s for 11 years. The school’s teachers and staff came up with the fundraising idea as a show of support and for something positive to focus on.

“I’m really touched by the support from all the students and their parents,” said Catherine.

“The more money we can raise to help cure this devastating condition the better.”

Tony Kendall was born and raised in York, serving briefly in India with the Armed Forces. He studied at Manchester University and then worked in York city centre for many years as an optician.

He met his future wife Judith through a Rambling Club and was very sporty during his life, enjoying cycling, playing tennis, badminton and rugby, as well as indoor bowls later in life.

York Dance Works have decided to raise money for Alzheimer’s charities throughout this year in his memory. Tony’s grandchildren Darcey and Theo both attend the school and are full of fundraising ideas for 2018.

Parents of others students at the school are also getting involved, including Kathryn Addison, who is training to run the London Marathon in April in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.

York Dance Works holds classes in ballet, tap, freestyle, contemporary, ballroom, street and musical theatre classes at Fishergate Primary, Huntington Community Centre, St Andrews and Joseph Rowntree School.