A DANCE group targeted at getting people into ballet in Basingstoke is gaining momentum.

Silver Swans is a ballet group run by the Royal Academy of Dance, and classes started in Oakley in April 2018, with Katy Richards at the helm.

An Oakley resident herself, Katy has been using her ability as a dance coach of 10 years to help people get involved in ballet.

The coach said: “While the classes are aimed at people over 55, we have people of all ages and abilities in the adult dance classes.

“When the Silver Swans scheme was announced a year ago, I went to train to become an instructor in the area.”

Each of the classes are tailored to suit the needs of the individual who is there, with classes taking a more relaxed approach to certain elements of dance, including what clothes to wear, and how rigorous it is.

Katy added: “These classes are more relaxed, people can wear what they like, and the music and moves are tailored in case people have difficulties or injuries.”

In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, which sees the programme of classes do exercises linked with the NHS to help prevent falls, build balance, and help in keeping posture, there is also a social benefit.

The 31-year-old instructor said: “It really links people together. My Oakley group started with just three people, but now we regularly have 12 people attending.

“Last year, we went to go see Swan Lake at the Anvil together, and at Christmas, we all had a big social event.

“They are making new friends and the group really benefits from that. We have a broad range of people at the classes, from people just under 55, to others in their 80s.If people want to give it a go, they should come along.”

There are two classes currently running, one at Oakley Village Hall on Fridays from 10.15am-11.15am, and another on Wednesdays at Sherborne St John from 1.15pm-2.15pm.

For more information, contact Katy on either info@lifelongdance.co.uk or call 07872167329.