LEE Houghton is about to take to the Strictly dancefloor – which couldn’t be further from his day job, repairing gas pipes deep underground.
The 46-year-old is much more at home waist-deep in excavations, as he helps keep the North West’s gas distribution network operating safely.
But – for one-night-only, this Sunday (10th December) – he will swap his bright Cadent PPE and sturdy boots for black-tie and dancing shoes to raise money for Warrington’s St Rocco’s Hospice.
Just like its TV namesake, Strictly St Rocco’s pairs novice dancers with professional partners, competing for a special glitterball trophy.
Lee and his dance partner Charlotte have been in training for weeks.
This is one of the biggest fund-raisers of the year for St Rocco’s.
“When I was 26, my mum Helen died from cancer and she spent her last days in St Rocco’s,” said Lee, a dad-of-two, who lives in Woolston.
“They were just out of this world, and I always said that one day, I would so something to raise money for them.”
“Although I like to think I can bust a move when I have had a beer, the fact is that I have zero dancing experience.
“I told them I wanted to do something fast and funky, so I am dancing the quickstep. It’s mad! There is a reason it’s called that – the speed of it is something else. I’ve been running around like a headless chicken!”
For the last 10 weeks, alongside the other contestants, Lee has been taking lessons at Cadmans Dance School, in Sale.
On Sunday, he will be cheered on by his workmates at Cadent, as well as lots of family and friends. Between them, they have booked four tables for the event, which takes place at Nunsmere Hall Hotel, Tarporley. More than 400 people are expected to attend on the night.
“Everyone has been taking the mick, and I am getting nervous as the day gets closer.But I know it’s going to be worth it, to have raised lots of money for a charity that is very close to my heart.”
To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/samantha-houghton5
