FORMER X-Factor contestant Rebecca Ferguson will be guest judge at a Strictly-styled dance event for a Wirral charity supporting people with cancer.
The Liverpool-born singer, who was a runner-up in reality TV singing competition's 2010 series, will join the panel for Strictly Maggie’s on Sunday, November 17.
Taking place at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool City Centre, it will feature 14 participants hitting the floor with a professional dancer from Merralls Dance Centre in Moreton.
They will compete to be crowned Strictly Maggie’s Champions 2024. Each contestant has a fundraising target of £1,000.
Built in the grounds of Clatterbridge Hospital, Maggie’s Wirral is described by its founders as 'a warm and welcoming place', with qualified professionals on hand to offer an evidence-based core programme of support that has been shown to improve physical and emotional wellbeing.
Looking forward to taking part in the fundraiser, Ferguson, said: "When I was asked to be involved in Strictly Maggie’s, I had to say yes, it is good to support local charities and Maggie's helps so many people.
"I hope that the evening raises a lot for the Maggie’s and I also hope it raises more awareness so that people know there is a place to go for support should they ever need it.
"I’m thankful to Maggie’s for thinking of me - I look forward to what I am sure will be a fun and memorable evening."
Among the contestants taking part in Strictly Maggie's will be Leanne Welsh, who is dancing following her own cancer diagnosis. She said: "In October 22 I was diagnosed with breast cancer, this was devastating news and as I looked at my four beautiful children and the wonderful life I had in front of me I made the decision to fight the hardest battle of my life, To beat cancer.
"The road was long, hard and at times I felt I couldn’t go on. Through surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy I lost my confidence, I was tired and had to make so many changes but one change I never made was strength.
Leanne continued: "At Maggie’s they help people take back control when cancer turns life upside down, with professional support for anything from treatment side effects to money worries.
"Their support is free and no appointment or referral is needed. Funding will help them to continue to provide a blend of emotional & practical support for everyone who needs it.
"Two years on my confidence has started to build and I’ve decided 'yes I can do this'.
"I can dance and celebrate my life, the battle I have over come and why not raise money for an outstanding charity along the way.
"Maggie's has not only touched my life but many of my other friends and family lives to.”
Maggie’s are ecstatic and honoured to have Rebecca Ferguson in attendance.
Centre Head Kathy Wright, said: "It’s such a privilege to have Rebecca involved, and we’re very grateful to have the support of a local celebrity, helping to raise the profile of our events and to help us raise vital funds to ensure we’re there for people with cancer.
"Rebecca is no stranger to talent shows after her outstanding experience on The X Factor, we’re sure Rebecca will have a real empathy for our participants like Leanne.
"We’re also hugely appreciative of Leanne for stepping out of her comfort zone to help Maggie’s, following an extremely difficult time."
Tickets for Strictly Maggie’s are available from the centre on 01513344301.
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