Dance professional, Mark Farrugia, used to drive a security van round delivering money to banks and building societies.

Now the Maltese-born dancer is driving Congletonians crazy on the dance floor – teaching them some of his fancy footwork as well as helping them to get fit.

For the fun-loving professional dancer, who has danced at competition level at the likes of the Blackpool Ballroom, is passing on some of his skills to others.

Mark has launched "Strictly Latin Dance Fit/Fit steps" classes all over the county.

You can join the classy calorie-burning sessions every Thursday for a fiver, at Congleton's Eaton Bank School.

The Jackson evening event lasts from 7:15pm - 8:00pm.

Mark says the popularity of Strictly Come Dancing, which prompted him to start his classes, has also started a dance craze among others.

"I've certainly got more students coming along as a result of the show," said Mark.

"It's such a popular show and everyone love watching it including me."

Thirty-six students were booked on Alsager's Monday night 45 minute class.

But it's not just learning a few steps from sultry dances like the Rumba, Cha Cha or the Samba which students are loving – it's also the fact that they are keeping fit.

Michelle Yates from Church Lawton was at Monday's Alsager class with friend Gill Coleman from Alsager.

Michelle said: "It's such fun to do and the music is great too. It's a bit like having a night out – we don't treat it as exercise."

Her friend Gill agreed. "It's my second class and I'm getting to grips with it. It's about watching his coloured socks and following his instructions."

Classes cost £5 per person and can be booked direct by phoning 07500 588597.

Spots are limited so you can register your interest and find out more about Mark's fancy footwork on his Facebook group

Please click here to find out more Congleton events going on at the moment.

See Also: Congleton's John Dhali releases first music video from his upcoming album.

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