A CHARITY Zumbathon held at Yate Academy last week raised more than £375 for a great cause.

Zumba lovers and members of Coalpit Heath-based charity, Paul’s Place came together to dance and raise money.

Seventy-five people took part in two full hours of Zumba hosted by instructors: Jodie Horton-Stanley, Claire Chandler, Nia Wills, Jasmine Haque, Tracey Barron and Selena Smith.

The session was organised by Jodie Horton-Stanley to raise awareness and much needed funds for Paul’s Place, a day centre which offers support, activity and friendship for adults with learning difficulties and physical impairment.

Paul’s Place runs a day facility, five days per week, at Coalpit Heath cricket ground, where its members can learn life skills, take part in exercise sessions, work on support plans, and take part in other fun activities.

Paul’s Place members, together with volunteers and carers, enthusiastically embraced the Zumbathon and joined in with the whole session, which took place under UV and disco lights.

They were joined by members of Jodie’s Zumba classes, which take place daily in Yate and Coalpit Heath.

Jodie said: “I was inspired by the work of Paul’s Place after hearing about them from some of my Zumba ladies who volunteer for them and wanted to do something to help raise money for their social events and activities.”

During the event, six different Zumba instructors took the stage to lead dances with different themes, from Latin, hip-hop and merengue, to bellydance and pop.

Zumba tutor Tracey Barron said: “It was amazing to see everyone dancing and having so much fun regardless of their abilities. We went away feeling inspired by the positivity and enthusiasm shown by everyone at Paul’s Place.”