Dance-off raises £36k for Down's syndrome charity

Dylan Smith and his dance partner Megan Roberts won the audience vote

A Strictly Come Dancing-style event has raised more than £36,000 for a charity that supports children and families affected by Down's syndrome.

The dance-off saw 11 amateurs pair up with experienced dancers to wow some 600 people at Wicksteed Park in Kettering, Northamptonshire, on Saturday.

Among those taking part after months of training was 18-year-old Dylan Smith, who won the audience vote with dance partner Megan Roberts.

"We had an incredible night, it was heartwarming to see the dedication of all the dancers," said Dylan's mum, Karen, who founded Ups n Downs with husband Christian.

All monies raised will fund the Kettering-based charity's activities and support across the county, including speech and language therapy, one-to-one swimming lessons and an advocacy support service.