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WATCH: Dudley dancers raise cash for charity in giant Zumba-thon

Up to 100 women demonstrated that it is possible to simultaneously lose and raise pounds, at a massive zumba-thon in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

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Dudley Leisure Centre was filled with ladies eager to do their bit for charity, while getting fit at the same time.

For two hours they followed the lead of zumba instructor Kelly Powell, who put them through their paces for the intense workout to high-energy dance and pop music.

As well as the usual fitness gear there were plenty of colourful tutus and leg-warmers on show, as the women embraced the spirit of the event.

Among the fundraising dancers was Martina Lambert, who decided to dress up as a bumblebee – and there was certainly a buzz around the centre.

"It was very high-energy, and everyone had a smile on their face," she said.

"It's such a great cause, and I don't think there is anybody who hasn't been touched by cancer in some way."

Staff at the Leisure Centre also got involved, with receptionist Eve Blunt giving it a go.

"It went really well. There were a lot of people there having a great time, and we are looking to do another event like this around Christmas," she said.

The event was organised by Patsy-Ann Bagley, manager of the Kingswinford branch of Superdrug, whose charity of the year is Marie Curie Cancer Care. Her husband Colin acted as DJ, while there was a tombola and raffle to help add to the charity pot.

Already the zumba-thon has raised £700, but much more is expected once all the sponsorship money has been collected.

For over 65 years, Marie Curie have been providing care and support for people living with any terminal illness and their families. Last year alone they cared for over 40,000 people across the UK.

At their West Midlands hospice by Brueton Park, Solihull, they provide in-patient care and day services, along with support for families and carers.

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