Duos get ready to rumba
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STRICTLY COME dancing did come to Newtown Country Club last Friday, when Ballapousta National School launched its own version of the hit show to raise funds with BBC Northern Ireland presenter Austin O'callaghan at the helm as the Master of Cermonies.
Organised by sixth class teacher, Peter Dooley, the evening began with the arrival of the 12 couples who will be dancing together and with their 'partners' on March 9.
A large crowd of people were waiting to greet resplendent participants: the men looking smart in their tuxedos from Ardee's Hughie O'neill, while the ladies glittered in their formal dresses.
After a medley of dancers from Gavin Quigley's Born to 2 studios showed their moves on the dance floor, the 24 Come Dancing competitors - who include teachers Angela O'hare and Rachel Mccluskey, and caretaker Jimmy Maguire - were interviewed by Mr. O'callaghan. As their dance partners for the main night were revealed there were loud cheers from the audience.
All of them have been rehearsing two nights a week since December and are now back on the floor, three times a week working on their moves for the main night.
Organiser, Peter Dooley said it is a tough schedule and praised all those taking part for all their hard work over the last few weeks.
