Eight couples will be given just a few hours to learn ballroom or Latin dances under the expert tuition of a former British champion as a glittering dance competition makes its return.

The popular Strictly Dancing event held by Ilkley Amateur Operatic Society returns to Ilkley on Saturday, April 12. This will be the third Strictly event at the Winter Gardens, and organisers are hoping this event will be the most spectacular yet.

Society chairman Julia Wilson, who will be hosting the event along with treasurer Tony Walker, said: “This year we are excited to have the fantastic Echo Four Two Big Band playing for all our couples, and our audience will also have the chance to dance. Our previous Strictly events have proved a huge success, and with the addition of a live band it’s going to be fabulous!”

Eight couples have been selected and will meet in the morning to find out who their partner is and whether they will be dancing a ballroom or Latin dance.

Under the guiding hand of Andrew Walton, a former British ballroom champion, they then have just a few hours to learn and perfect their dance before they perform it in the evening, when the audience will vote for their favourites.

Last year’s winners, Mark Allan and Stephanie Burgess, are preparing to hand the coveted glitterball trophy back. “I wish all the competitors good luck,” said Mr Allan. “They’ll need it. It’s one of the most stressful things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most fun.”

This time, Dr Allan will be on the other side of the fence as one of the panel of judges who will mark each couple on their performance. The judges’ scores will be added to the results of the audience vote and the top two couples will then dance again, with one pair being crowned victorious.

Tickets for the event cost £15, which includes supper. There is a bar, and seating is at tables of four or eight. Call 07763 816611 to book tickets.