A new campaign designed to get 100,000 people more active through dance ahead of the London 2012 Olympics has been launched by the Department of Health (DH).

The Dance Champions Campaign, which forms part of the Dance4Life initiative, will see the Dance Champions Group travel across the UK in a bid to entice people to take part in free mass-participation events. Free taster dance sessions for people who aren't very active, a Dance Summit to bring together all national organisations involved in dance and the creation of a dance directory website are also planned.

The Dance Champions Group will comprise ex-Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips, former Come Dancing presenter Angela Rippon, professional dancer Darren Bennett and chair Rod Aldridge. Capital Radio's Lisa Snowdon; Roger Mosey, BBC director at London 2012; Janet Archer, director of dance strategy at Arts Council England; Daran Bennett of the Physical Activity Alliance; dance coach Miguel Doforo and Andrew Hanson, head of policy at the Central Council of Physical Recreation have also been named as dance champions, as well as Margaret Peggie, vice president of the Fitness League.

Public health minister Gillian Merron said: "Our Dance Champions are some of the best known and leading talents of the dance world, but you don't have to be a professional to enjoy dancing and feel the positive effect it can have on your health. "With the leadership of the dance champions, we want to capture the national enthusiasm for dance and get at least 100,000 more adults active through dance in the run up to the 2012 Olympics."

Arlene Phillips added: "We want to start a revolution to get the nation on their feet and onto the dance floor! Dancing is a great way to get fit and healthy and the Dance Champions want to get everyone involved. It doesn't matter whether you're young or old or if you've never danced before." Image L-R: Angela Rippon, Rod Aldridge, Gillian Merron (Public Health minister), Arlene Phillips and Lisa Snowdon