Express & Star

Dancing for joy! 1,096 Shrewsbury Charleston dancers score official world record

Shropshire has jigged its way into the record books for the most people dancing the Charleston.

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The attempt in Shrewsbury's Quarry last month has officially been recognised by Guinness World Records.

A total of 1,096 people, from children to pensioners, got their glad rags on and danced a six minute routine, led by Sarah Bright from Revel In Dance.

Bird's eye view of the Charleston dancers

The dance teacher from Shrewsbury said she was celebrating last night after receiving the stamp of approval by popping a bottle of Champagne.

"We now officially hold the record title for the world's largest Charleston dance," she said.

Watch the Charleston world record being set:

"A huge thank you to all 1,096 people for taking part and putting Shropshire on the map. I'm absolutely over the moon.

"We were starting to get a bit worried as to whether we'd make it because it was taking too long to confirm all the details – but we made it.

"Thank you to all the sponsors and helpers, without them the event wouldn't have been possible at all.

"The event has been a great example of what people can achieve when everyone comes together.

The previous record was held by Swing Patrol for a dance in London’s Spitalfields Market in October 2015, where 975 people had come together.

The Charleston world record attempt in Shrewsbury Quarry

As well as a world record attempt, the I Can Charleston event was also raising money for Severn Hospice.

Money is still flooding in by Sarah hopes the total will hit £5,000 in the coming weeks.

Sarah hosted a number of workshops leading up to the event to teach the routine, which had to adhere to strict criteria, and raised £1,800.

A further £2,400 was donated by people taking part on the day.

The group also received praise online from Strictly Take Two presenter, Zoe Ball and professional dancer Ian Waite.

To donate online visit justgiving.com/fundraising/icancharlestonrevel-in-dance.