A Burnley dad of two is hosting a World Cup fund raiser for Pendleside Hospice this weekend.

The England v Panama bonanza event is part of Andy Peyton’s efforts to raise cash for Pendleside Hospice. For he is a contestant in this year’s Pendleside Does Strictly.

And while the Project Coordinator at FUNDA Active admitted taking to the dancefloor is ‘definitely out of my comfort zone’ he was determined to take on the challenge and raise as much money as possible.

Pendleside Does Strictly contestant Andy Peyton, who is hosting a World Cup fundraiser, pictured with his dance partner Sammy Garnett

placeholder image — Pendleside Does Strictly contestant Andy Peyton, who is hosting a World Cup fundraiser, pictured with his dance partner Sammy Garnett

Andy said: “Pendleside Hospice cared for both of my grandparents during the final stages of their lives and the support they provided was absolutely incredible. The care, support and kindness they showed our family is something we will never forget.”

The dance competition is run in conjunction with Sanderson’s Dance Studio and Andy’s wife Sophie grew up going to classes there. And the couple’s oldest son Finnley (five) is following in his mum’s footsteps and looking forward to his first showcase next year. The couple also have a son Herbie who is nine months old. And it is a real family affair as Andy’s dance partner for the contest is Sammy Garnett who is also Finnley’s godmother.

Andy’s event will be held on Saturday (June 27) at Penny Black in Burnley. And with England now having everything to play for, the atmosphere will be off the scale. The game will be shown live on a big screen and premium tickets for entry from 5pm include food and entertainment, football themed quiz, live music from The Moors, DJ set, football cards, raffles and prize draws.Tickets are available on eventbrite. General entry is from 8pm with a minimum £5 donation on the door.

Raffle tickets are £1 and include a variety of prizes including retail, beauty and holiday vouchers.