By Linzi Watson

Last updated 05:41, Friday, 05 September 2008

BELLY dancing classes in Brampton are back.

Fire in their belly: Alison Whitworh demonstrates how to belly dance

Taster sessions were first held in the community centre in March with a view to setting up permanent classes.

Penrith-based instructor Val Dugdale encouraged everyone to have a go.

A 10-week block of sessions is now set for the town, starting on Wednesday, September 24.

Ali Whitworth, who runs the Well Being Brampton project, said: “There has been a lot of interest and we have been trying to secure a teacher locally which we have managed to do now.

“We are going to need at least 12 people for the classes to run.

“Quite a lot of people are interested in belly dancing but they don’t know much about it.”

She added: “We have people of all ages who got in touch to say they wanted to take part, ranging in age from 16 to 70.

“A lot of them are absolute beginners who are bold enough to give it a go.”

She added: “Belly dancing does seem to be getting more popular as something that women in particular can take advantage of.

“There is also a very enjoyable and sociable aspect and you don’t need a partner, people can just come along on their own and make friends.”

Ali added that the classes will suit beginners as well as those who have taken part in belly dancing before.

She said: “There are other dance opportunities at Brampton Community Centre as well as other physical activities to help people stay active.”

Classes will run on a Wednesday from 7pm to 8.30pm and cost £6 for a session and £50 for 10 sessions.

For more information contact Brampton Community Centre on 016977 45023.