Thursday 28 May 2015

1,500 put heart and soul into record bid reports the Blackpool Gazette


Northern Soul fanatics busted a move on the coast to raise money for Cancer Research – and attempt to set a world record in the process. 

Around 1,500 soul devotees from across the country danced for the cause over bank holiday weekend on the resort’s comedy carpet, in a bid to create a new record for the most people dancing at an outside event. 

More than 1,000 Northern Soul fans descended on the Comedy Carpet infront of Blackpool's Tower to set a world record for the most dancers in one outside event and raise money for Cancer Research.  

The event lasted for around four hours, with the official count taken when two tracks were played during a 10 minute dance – followed by a tribute and speech by the Mayor of Blackpool, Councillor Peter Callow. 

Organiser Phil McDougall promoted the event with help from Phil’s Street Angels and Soul Suite bar. And he said the event was such a massive success, he is planning a follow-up next year.  

“I am so proud of the event’s success,” he said. “I would like to praise the people of Blackpool, they did a lot for me and gave massive support. I have been coming to Blackpool for over 50 years and I thank Blackpool for hosting one of the most amazing events I have ever organised on behalf of Cancer Research UK. 

“There was a tribute to people who have succumbed to cancer, the whole crowd stood still and after the clapping the Mayor gave a moving speech.  

“I have nothing but praise for him, I actually saw people crying.” 

The event raised an estimated £10-12,000 for Cancer Research UK, with profits raised by donations, promotional materials, wristbands and a DVD of the event.  

But there is no word as of yet whether the event will end with a world record, as the process takes four weeks to verify. But with the help of filming from the Tower those taking part have a real shot at landing the title in the Guinness World Book of Records.

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