A WHITCHURCH dance group has thanked the Rotary Club and Inner Wheel for donations that have enabled to bring free dance for struggling families.

Maggie Mays Studio will use the donation to ensure five of its young dancers will be able to attend two terms of classes free of charge at a time when families are dealing with the cost of living crisis.

The Whitchurch Inner Wheel took the decision to allocate funds in its January meeting.

It has plans to donate more funds to groups in the town in the summer with Maggie Mays Studio potentially receiving a further donation.

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Clair and Walter Schafer from Whitchurch Inner Wheel and Rotary Club said: "We had seen some of your youngsters performing, I think at the Jubilee Celebrations and seen them in the studio as we look across from the Civic Centre.

"We know from first-hand experience with our own grandchildren how important clubs such as Maggie Mays are to these young people, and particularly to those who do not necessarily find their community within the school environment.

"The current economic climate has made it more difficult for many families to support their children in this way, and our clubs wanted to explore whether we could provide support."

In addition to the donation allowing children from struggling families to pursue their passion for dance, it will also help provide life-changing opportunities for many including preparing for dance exams and performing on stage.

Maggie Mays Studio founder Crissy Wylie and Susie Thurogood who leads Musical Theatre thanked the Rotary Club and Inner Wheel for their support.

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They said: "We are incredibly grateful to the Whitchurch Rotary Club and Whitchurch Inner Wheel for their generous contributions.

"These donations not only alleviate the financial burden faced by struggling families but also ensure that our dance studio remains a place where children can feel supported, grow as individuals, and develop lasting friendships."

The studio prides itself on its inclusivity and providing camaraderie.

A spokesperson said: "Maggie Mays Studios takes great pride in being an inclusive dance school and creating a tight-knit dance family where all individuals, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and express themselves through the art of dance.

"With the support of the Whitchurch Rotary Club and Whitchurch Inner Wheel, the studio remains committed to ensuring that no child loses the sense of belonging and camaraderie that they find within the school."