Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust's Fit 2 Dance Project has launched two new dance events this summer for young people in Wigan Borough.

The 'On the Move' summer dance school project included a variety of workshops covering a range of dance styles for eight- to 11-year-olds at schools in Lowton, Higherfolds and Hagfold.

The five-day event saw four days of workshops in Latin, contemporary or Indian dance and a final day of live performances.

On The Move was funded by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in partnership with Wigan Council's Extended Learning Team and Lowton Community Sports College.

Lowton East Councillor Ian Franzen has also made a significant contribution to the project through Brighter Borough funding.

The second initiative, 'Strictly Street Dance', is for children aged 12-16 and run by dance group Company Fierce Dance.

Eight taster sessions will be held at Hesketh Fletcher High School and Shackerley Community Centre in late July and August and those who enjoy the tasters will be invited to a week of workshops at the same venues between 22-30 August.

Everyone who participates in the full week of dance will then head to the home of Manchester City F.C. to perform at the Greater Manchester Street Games on Friday 31 August.

Vicky Thomas, Fit 2 Dance project co-ordinator for Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, said: "These projects are ideal for young people who have an interest in dance.

“On The Move is an excellent opportunity for them to get active and having workshops in a variety of different styles is a great way of introducing them to different cultures.

“Strictly Street Dance is a rare opportunity for young people in Atherton and Shackerley to get top class tuition from a really innovative dance company. No experience is necessary, just enthusiasm.

"Dance is a powerful form of self expression, which requires teamwork, commitment and the ability to develop ideas, skills which these projects aim to teach the young dancers as well as increasing their self-esteem.

“Dance not only tackles the growing problem with obesity among young people but also improves flexibility, co-ordination, strength, balance and power endurance.

“We hope that these projects will inspire those who take part to have the confidence and motivation to be involved in further dance classes and sports activities." Details: www.wlct.org

Photographs: Dance Fusion 2007, Wigan Borough’s dance festival