As a child it was her dream to visit the famous Tower Ballroom at Blackpool - and now a dance teacher has not only done so, but in the company of two Strictly stars, to receive an award.

Gillian Sadler, of Embrace Dance Fitness and Lowen Ena Dance Academy in Penryn, has been named Best FitSteps Instructor in the south west.

Presenting Gillian, who grew up in Gunwalloe near Helston, with her award were Strictly Come Dancing professional Ian Waite, who co-founded the dance exercise classes FitSteps, and a former contestant of the BBC1 show, swimmer Mark Foster.

Thanking everyone who voted for her, Gillian said: "Yes I work hard but I love what I do, and seeing a myriad of smiles and hearing a cacophony of laughter in all of my classes is enough.

"FitSteps to me is ultimate soul food - it’s simple."

The dance instructor hosts a FitSteps class called A Step UP every third Friday of the month, at HeartSpace on Commercial Road in Penryn, from 7pm to 8.30pm.

This month's class is taking place slightly later, due to New Year, and will be held this Friday, January 24.

Those taking part can experience all of the dance styles that feature in Strictly Come Dancing, without needing a partner.

To book a place visit the Embrace Dance Fitness Facebook page, or call or text Gillian on 07817 174114.