Cops try different beat for strictly dance show
They may be known as PC Plod, but officers are set to show they can bust a move on the dancefloor.
Ten policemen and women from Maidstone are being whipped into shape by professional dancers for a Strictly Come Dancing event on Saturday, November 18 at Five Acre Wood School. The group includes two inspectors, a sergeant, six police constables and one police community support officer.
The event will raise money for Maidstone-based charity More Than Words, which provides free Makaton signing to families with children who have communication difficulties, as well as organising support groups and inclusive events. Makaton uses signs and symbols, which are used alongside speech to provide extra clues about what someone is saying.
The charity was set up by PC Paul Hughes and his wife Hannah. They were inspired by their daughter Gracie, who was born with a genetic disorder. Doctors said she may never walk, talk, or eat, but she can now communicate using Makaton, eat some items, and walk short distances.
PC Hughes, who is putting his dancing shoes and performing a waltz at the event, said: “When Gracie was two we as parents found it almost impossible to go to a Makaton signing course, as they were not accessible and were not provided by the NHS.
“As time went on, it became clear we were not alone, and this vital skill that could make our lives a tad less stressful would benefit so many families.”
PCSO Kirsty Greaves, who is in training for the event at the Boughton Lane school in Maidstone, said: “Dancing for a charity close to your heart and knowing this is helping those facing a massive challenge of communicating with their children makes the little challenge I have to face so worth it.”
Each performance on the night, which kicks off at 7.30pm, will be judged by members of the public. Tickets are £20 for adults and £10 for children, and are available by emailing trustees@morethanwordscharity.com