Strictly Come Dancing stars in Oldbury fundraising visit

The pair, who came second in the 2005 edition of the BBC celebrity dancing competition, strutted their stuff in front of npower staff at their office in Oldbury yesterday.

The visit was part of the firm's fundraising drive for Macmillan Cancer Support and they danced, tutored, signed photographs and even judged a cake competition at the power company's Joseph Street headquarters.

Erin, whose professional partner is fellow Strictly contestant Anton du Beke, said: "We are travelling all over the country with npower over the next five days to support the charity.

"All of the staff here have made a donation to do a workshop with us, watch the show, or enter the cake competition, and every bit of money goes to Macmillan.

"I think everyone during their lifetime is affected by cancer, whether that's directly or someone they know, and npower have supported Macmillan for the last few years. This is a good way for people to have fun, join in and raise money at the same time."

The duo performed two specially-choreographed pieces, as well as a quick rendition of Gangnam Style, that had been created to fit a small six metre by six metre floor.

Erin and Colin also gave their top tips for this year's competition, with Erin opting for partner Anton, who will partner former Bond girl Fiona Fullerton.

Erin said: "I have got to support Anton - this year he is with Fiona, and she can walk in a straight line and do a little twirl here and there."

Meanwhile Colin is hoping Casualty actor Patrick Robinson goes far with partner Anya Garnis, as he works with Colin's sister Suzanne Packer on the BBC hospital drama.

He added: "You don't know how they are going to do until you see them on the live stage.

"When you are training it's completely different than with a live audience. Some of the actors might be used to being on a live stage, but it's a different kind of stage.