DANCE teachers in Yate held a special zumba class to raise money for Ukrainian refugees

Go Zumba a dance class based at Yate Academy held a sponsored Zumbathon where dancers and instructors completed sixteen energetic routines to raise money for the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund.

All class fees went to wards the fundraising as well as a cake sale that was held afterwards and together over £800 was raised for the cause.

Dancers were encouraged to wear something yellow or blue to emulate the Ukraine flag and a special dance called to the song 'We are one' by popular singer Pitbull, was dedicated to the people of Ukraine.

Over 70 dancers including women and children joined in for the routines that were taught by instructors Jodie Stanley-Horton and Tracey plus Jodie’s 13-year-old daughter Eden.

"We’ve all felt helpless on hearing the terrible events unravel daily and in our small way wanted to do something," explained Jodie.

"Our thoughts were with the people of Ukraine and thinking of their current struggle as we danced, whooped and shimmied."

Yate Academy kindly donated the use of the hall for free and locals donated cakes to be sold at the event that went ahead at the end of March.

The group raised a total of £840 that was sent directly to the humanitarian fund account for the Ukraine.

"We asked our members to come dressed in yellow and blue colours and we were pleased to dedicate a special dance to the Ukrainian people to show that no matter where we are from in the world, we all deserve to live in peace and unity," said Jodie.

Established eleven years ago Go Zumba now has groups in Yate and Coalpit Heath and over the years the members have raised over £20,000 for local and national charities.

"It’s an amazing feeling to be a part of such a wonderful community that comes together to support other and each other and of course keep fit. Zumba is such a fun way to lose weight, tone up and feel good - everyone is welcome to give a class a try!" she added.