EIGHT intrepid business people swapped their suits for sequins as they took to the dancefloor for Christmas Business Come Dancing.

After six weeks of training with their professional dance partners from Pavilion Dance South West, the eight brave businessmen and women showed off their newly-acquired fancy footwork at a showstopper of an evening.

A judging panel consisting of Mayor of Bournemouth Cllr Chris Mayne, dance teacher Natasha Tobin, last year’s winner Amy Cousineau and PR manager Darren Northeast had the tough task of deciding a winner.

But after everyone had shimmied under the spotlight, the trophy was eventually awarded to Emily Hingston from Heart Radio and partner Liam Fraser who left the audience spellbound with their beautiful contemporary dance.

They narrowly beat Jo Legg, also of Heart Radio, who danced Ballroom Latin with Lawrence James.

And Rob Hazel, of Flirt Cafe, took third place after dancing Lindyhop with Sarah Probert.

The event at Pavilion Dance South West raised money for Wessex Cancer Trust and Parkinson’s Dance and was sponsored by the Koh Foundation.

A highlight was a stylish James Bond-themed surprise flash mob by the participants of the PDSW Parkinson’s dance class.

Joanne Howard, fundraising co-ordinator at PDSW, said: “We had an amazing evening and people have been so generous with their time and donations.

“The participants have done such an amazing job and even though there were a few nerves the performances were fantastic.

“We are so grateful for all the funds raised through this event and want to say a massive thank you to everyone for their support.”