Baby ballet stars
BABIES and toddlers in The Heatons and Cheadle took part in a danceathon for charity.
The tots from dance school babyballet danced with children’s television character Peppa Pig during their weekly class to raise funds for baby charity Tommy’s.
The youngsters, aged six months to six years – from the babyballet Didsbury, The Heatons, Sale and Cheadle school – joined forces with tots across the country to take part in danceathons.
Events were held at Studio 17, Egerton Road South, Heaton Moor and East Didsbury Methodist Church, Parrs Wood Road, Didsbury. Around 480 children in four age group classes took part from the school and were sponsored to take part in five challenges, going on an imaginary journey with Peppa from their classroom to a tea party.
They practiced pointing their toes, galloping, jumping, balancing and counting – and were able to have their picture taken with Peppa at the end
Together the 24,000 babyballet tots across the UK aim to raise £500,000 to help fund Tommy’s research into miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth.
Dance teacher and exprofessional dancer Laura Wright, who has run babyballet Didsbury, The Heatons, Sale and Cheadle for five-and-a-half years, said: “We were all really excited to be taking part in Tommy’s danceathon.
“We held the danceathon two years ago and it was a huge success and raised £7,642, so are hoping to beat that this year.
“The atmosphere was amazing. The children had to complete five challenges in class, which they all did so well.
“They loved the Peppa Pig theme and having pictures with Peppa after completing their challenges.”
Tommy’s funds four research centres in the UK that investigate causes and treatments for miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth. Its team of midwives also offers advice and support for prospective parents to help them have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Jane Brewin, chief executive of Tommy’s, said: “Danceathon is a great way for mums and dads to involve their little ones in a good cause.
“Tommy’s relies on the generosity and hard work of its supporters like babyballet to continue its pioneering research to prevent pregnancy complications.”
‘They all did so well’