KEEN dancers held a half-day dance-a-thon to raise money to compete in a premier dance competition.

Pupils from West Lakes Academy and the Whitehaven Academy took part in the 12 hour dance session to support their 2019 Rock Challenge performances.

They gathered at the Egremont school on Sunday for the dance workshop, which ran from 7am to 7pm.

Beth Walker, Year 13 student and Rock Challenge choreographer, said, “The dance-a-thon was a big success. For the second year running we joined together with Whitehaven Academy to raise money for a shared cause and have fun. The total amount raised from the event is yet to be confirmed but we’re confident that alongside our future fundraising efforts we will raise enough for this year’s competition. Rehearsals are underway for this year’s performance - it has lots of potential and I’m excited to see what we can produce.”

Rock Challenge is an annual educational and aspirational performing arts competition for students in secondary schools.

It sees each participating school put together an eight minute dance and drama production on a theme of their choice.

Students have to raise funds to support their involvement in Rock Challenge, covering their costs of equipment, scenery, travel and accommodation.

For the last two years West Lakes Academy has bagged the top spot at the Northern Premier Final of Rock Challenge.

The initial competition takes place in Carlisle.