A Kings Langley couple are set to put on their dancing shoes, to raise money for charity.

Husband and wife team Jeff Folkins and Claire Carpentier are hoping to dazzle at the Watford Peace Hospice’s fundraising event Strictly Come Hospice.

The pair, who own Dallings and Co. in Kings Langley High Street, inadvertently signed themselves up for the competition, following a discussion with friends.

Ms Carpentier, 46, of Vicarage Lane, explained: “After a few drinks one evening, some friends remarked that they would be taking part, so Jeff and I said we would as well.

“Needless to say, we’ve signed up, but our friends have all cried off with other commitments and injury.

“I’ll be completely out of my comfort zone. Not only do I hate dancing, but I’m not keen on being on stage and I don’t enjoy dressing up and wearing heels.”

The couple have committed to learning the Cha Cha Cha in six weeks and will perform the routine, to music of their choice, at the Watford Colosseum on February 17.

Several other couples from across the county are taking part in the challenge, with some opting to learn to Jive instead.

A panel of judges will score each of the pairs, and the couple with the highest total will be crowned winners of Strictly Come Hospice.

For the past two weeks, they have been learning the steps and trying to raise sponsorship for the event.

Mr Folkins, 51, said: “It is a competition, but we’re not competitive with the other couples, we’re just keen not to make fools of ourselves in front of other people.

“We’re hoping to raise as much money as possible. We have to cover our entrance fee of £300 and sell a number of tickets at £20.

“Anything extra we raise will be a bonus.”

Although they are being taught to dance by professionals, the couple are practising at every available opportunity.

Ms Carpentier said: “Jeff has turned into Arlene Phillips. Not only is he telling me where I’m going wrong in my steps, but he’s also giving tips to other dancers.

“I don’t know what it is about men and dancing, but for some reason a competition like this turns them into ‘experts’.

“The biggest hurdle I’ve come up against is remembering the steps. For Jeff- it’s his footwork.”

This is not the first time the duo have raised cash for the hospice.

Last year Ms Carpentier took part in the Starlight Walk and Mr Folkins grew a moustache for Movember. They raised £900 and £600 respectively.

Ms Carpentier: “The Watford Peace Hospice, not only is it a local cause, it’s something that everyone should care about, simply because at some point in your life you will know someone or could be personally affected by terminal illness.

“The hospice struggles for donations as it is and it needs all the help it can to continue to provide a fantastic service.

“I’d urge people to see the show or sponsor us. Every penny will make a difference.”

With just over four weeks left until the contest, those hoping to catch the couple rehearsing in-store, will be disappointed.

Ms Carpentier said: “It’s bad enough I’ll be making a fool of myself in front of an audience, never mind practising in front of customers.

“There would have to be a substantial donation before I twirled around the shop floor.”

Sponsor Jeff and Claire at: www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/dallingdancingdarlings