A DANCE troupe from Sheffield has proved it is the hottest thing on two wheels – and is looking for more members for the year ahead.
Wheelchair group Wheels in Motion has gained national and international recognition for its work making dance accessible to people with physical disabilities.
Members enjoyed a string of successes after forming in February 2011 – and continued to go from strength to Strength last year.
In April, they travelled to the World Championships in the Netherlands, where they won two bronze medals.
In the summer, the outfit became UK champions in duo and combination dancing in Manchester, while in November, they won gold in the ballroom and Latin American sections at Malta’s Wheelchair Dance Sport contest.
Founder June Higgins, of High Green, said: “We had a great year for our first one, but the past one was even better.
“Following fundraising events and receiving grants, we have been able to attend competitions overseas as well as in the UK.
“Families come and watch the members compete and it means so much to them.
“Wheelchair dancing promotes inclusive activity. Other benefits include improving fitness, stamina, co-ordination and posture as well as tackling weight issues.
“It also helps to improve confidence and self-esteem, helping some to accept and come to terms with becoming a wheelchair user.”
The group practises every week in High Green under the leadership of June and her daughter Nicola – Yorkshire’s only Wheelchair Dance Sport Association qualified coaches – and is looking for new members to keep the medals coming this year.
June said: “Our aim this year is to go back to the Netherlands for the World Championships as it’s the 25th anniversary, but we’re desperate for new members.
“We have members on our books, but some are in and out of hospital, so we tend to get only about six regulars at rehearsals.”
n For details on joining Wheels in Motion, call June on 0114 2845738.
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