Strictly Knot Dancing 2025 Welcomes Star-Studded Judging Panel

Staffordshire is set to sparkle this autumn with the launch of the very first Strictly Knot Dancing, a brand-new fundraising spectacular bringing glitz, glamour and dazzling dance to the county. Inspired by the magic of Strictly Come Dancing, the event will see local contestants paired with professional dancers in a night of entertainment, all while raising a remarkable £100,000 for the Dougie Mac.

The debut event will take place on Friday 3rd October 2025 at the Kings Hall Stoke, in front of a live audience of more than 800 people. Tables for the evening have already sold out, showing the huge excitement and support behind the show. A limited number of spectator balcony tickets will be released soon, giving more people the chance to experience this glittering night for themselves.

Heading up the judging panel are Strictly Come Dancing legends Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova – the only married couple to have both lifted the famous glitterball trophy. Darren and Lilia became household names when they won in consecutive years, going on to collect a record-breaking six Strictly trophies between them. Their glittering competitive and professional careers have seen them crowned British and UK champions, star on six Strictly seasons, and choreograph internationally for Dancing With The Stars.

They will be joined by three more judges bringing local pride and professional expertise:

• Nathan Heaney, Stoke-on-Trent’s undefeated boxing star and crowd favourite.
• Oliver Hand, a world-class Ballroom and Latin dancer, international champion, and Sanctuary Dance School Stone owner.
• David Webster, CEO of the Dougie Mac, representing the charity at the heart of the event.

Speaking about their involvement, Darren and Lilia said:
“Dance has given us so much throughout our lives, from competing on the world stage to the joy of performing on Strictly. Being part of events like this is always special – it brings people together, raises vital funds for charity, and most importantly spreads the joy of dance. We can’t wait to see the contestants take to the floor and share in the energy of the night.”

David Webster, CEO of Dougie Mac, added:
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone involved in Strictly Knot Dancing. The funds raised will make a real difference to the patients and families we care for every single day. With our services now supporting people of all ages across North Staffordshire, the generosity of the community is more important than ever. I’m also personally looking forward to taking my place on the judging panel – it promises to be an inspiring and entertaining evening.”

With its glittering line-up of judges, overwhelming ticket demand, and a fundraising target set to transform lives, the very first Strictly Knot Dancing 2025 promises to be a launch night like no other.

One of  Strictly Knot Dancing’s 12 contestants is our very own We Are Staffordshire Place Board Chair, Hannah Ault.

Contestants taking part:

• Karen Staley – Greens Accountants
• Jane Shepherd – Shepherd PR
• Kate Beardmore – Port Vale
• Sarah Mellor – Beswick Solicitors
• Hannah Ault – Valentine Clays
• Andrea Heath – DJH
• Nadine Baggeley – Green House People
• Gareth Higgins – KMF
• Pete Davenport – SG Fleet
• Nathan Walton – Insurance Connections
• Matt Fletcher – Fletcher Moorland
• Mark Thorndike – Pastel Group

Visit here to support the event and find out more about fundraising.

For further details please contact Knot Events at info@knot-events.co.uk

Follow the journey on social media using #StrictlyKnotDancing to cheer on our dancers as they train, twirl and transform lives.