I am taking part in (A Little Less) Strictly Come Dancing to help raise funds for The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice with my fab-u-lous dance partner Craig Murdoch! Over the next few months will be learning a routine which I'll then perform in front of hundreds of people at the Hilton Glasgow on Saturday 16th March 2024.

In November 2008, my Granny, Sadie Speirits, was diagnosed with two tumours, in her lung and the second one in her brain. At the time of her diagnosis she was expected to only live for 6 weeks. As her diagnosis progressed and prevented her from staying at home, she was moved to the PPWH, at their former Carlton Place premises where she received exceptional care. She passed away in the April 2009. During her time there, the Hospice became a second home for us all. The staff cared for her so well, and looked after my family with such kindness. They made us tea and coffee, and were there to let us just be her family in the difficult final months. I was in my final year studying law when my Granny was in the Hospice, and it was a warm, inviting and calm place for me to come to after a long day in the library. She passed away the week before the first of my final year exams.

She was a formidable lady who was proud of everything her family did, and I am hoping by being involved in this incredible event, I can do my bit to say thank you to the PPWH.

I am not a dancer – although I love a dance! I am so delighted to be paired with Craig, and can’t wait to show off my moves (and fake tan!) at the event on the 16th March.

As well as the huge task of learning to dance, I am setting myself the target of raising at least £3000 for the Hospice to support patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families. I know things are hard for so many people just now, but I would be so grateful if you were able to spare some money to donate to this wonderful cause and make all my training worthwhile.

Each year the Hospice cares for 1200 patients and their families, and to allow them to deliver their excellent care, they rely on donations and volunteers.

The event is sure to be a fantastic night, and if you would also like to support the Hospice by taking a table at the event, please let me know.

I’ll keep you updated with training news and maybe show off a few of my new moves before the event.

Keeeep dancing!