Dance champ Craig returns to Burnley dance school

Craig (45), who has Down's syndrome, has spent his whole life dancing at Sanderson's, winning many trophies and accolades along the way.

A student of Ballroom, Latin, Old Time and Tap dancing for more than 25 years, Craig, who lives in Brierfield, has gained the highest "honour" award on a number of occasions in dance exams and is a regular competitor at Blackpool Winter Gardens.

Sanderson's re-opened its doors in July, and owner Jackie Sanderson said they could not wait to welcome everyone back.

"Sanderson's is thrilled to welcome our very own Craig Hartley back into the studio," she said. "His talent, skills and passion for dance resurfaced as soon as he came onto the floor - an emotional moment for his teachers."

Craig's sister and fellow dancer Dawn Vickers manages a local charity called DanceSyndrome, which is led by adults with learning disabilities.

Dawn said "I'm delighted that Craig is back dancing. We've had some emotional times during the past months, Craig's been really down and angry at times at not being able to dance at Sanderson's, which is such an important part of his life.

"Everything he loved had been taken away because of the lockdown, and it was affecting his health and well-being. But now even after one dance session with his teacher Claire he's like a new man. He's got his weekly routine back and a reason to get up every morning."

Craig's mum Pat Hartley said "Craig is thrilled to be back dancing again. There is no doubt he's missed it; it's been a big part of his life since he was 18 years old."

Craig said "I love dancing with my teachers Claire and Amanda. I've been stir-crazy during the lockdown, but that's all behind me now."