AN INVERCLYDE schoolgirl is set to put her ballroom dancing skills to the test for a good cause next month.
Ten-year-old Jorgie McGowan, from Port Glasgow, has been selected to take part in Strictly Kids – an annual fundraiser held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Glasgow.
The black tie event sees several couples take to the floor in a Strictly Come Dancing-style competition, with the winners of each category going on to compete in a final.
Jorgie, who lives at Kingston Dock, applied to take part in last year’s edition and was delighted to be invited back this year.
The St John’s Primary School pupil was even happier to learn she had been paired up with her competitive dancing partner, Jessica Connolly.
Mum Cheryl McGowan told the Tele: “All the partnering gets done behind the scenes and we don’t have a part to play in that.
“We had to phone and check if it was definitely this Jorgie with that Jessica – it’s such a coincidence!”
Jorgie and Jessica have chosen to perform a cha cha routine and will complete six training sessions with their assigned coach before the big night.
Each of the Strictly Kids’ competitors are tasked with raising at least £300, with all donations going to Motherwell-based charity The Miracle Foundation.
The organisation provides early intervention bereavement and trauma support for children, young people and families in Lanarkshire.
As well as filling up her sponsor sheets, Jorgie has been running events in her community to help boost her fundraising in a bid to beat her 2023 total of £585.
Jorgie said: “I had a doggy pop up café – it was so fun.
“I got to make pup cups and lots of people came with their puppies.”
Cheryl added: “It’s just lovely to see her using her passion for dance to try help other people.
“She’s got such a kind nature anyway. We’re so proud of her for wanting to raise money and do things like this.”
Jorgie and Jessica will take to the dance floor in Glasgow on October 6, with their family cheering them on from the side lines.
Those who wish to support Jorgie's efforts can donate at justgiving.com.
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