International street dancers join Strictly Northampton line-up

Joining the line-up, which includes X Factor stars Xyra, and international Bhangra performer, Jeet Chahil, are street dancers, Cartel.

Cartel is a group of six dancers, including one of last year’s Step By Step Dance School dancers, Jordan Goodenough, and have performed across the world.

A spokesman for the group said: “Our main objective is to be role models for the local community.

“We are particularly keen on proving to young individuals that with drive, dedication and hard work, we are able to achieve our goals.”

The group was put together just under a year ago, but has already had success in dancing competitions.

“We have taken part in many competitions over the last year, not only in the UK but also in Copenhagen and Las Vegas.

“We represented our country at the International Dance Organisation Championships and at Hip Hop International World Championships.

“We reached the quarter finals in both of those competitions and advanced to the semi finals in the hip hop world championships, not a bad year for us,” the spokesman added.

“We strongly believe that with a passion such as dance we can change people’s lives. We are living proof of this and wish to share this with as many people as possible.”

Founder of the Step By Step Dance School, Andrzej Mialkowski, said he was delighted that Cartel would be performing on the night.

“Cartel is an incredibly talented group of dancers and I am sure that the audience will love their performance,” he said.

One of the highlights of the evening will be the showcase dance by Andrzej and his dance partner.

Chronicle & Echo editor, David Summers, said: “This is now a well-established tradition of the Strictly Northampton show and it is definitely a highlight of the show, not just for the audience but for all the performers of Strictly Northampton, to watch an international dance champion in action.

“Andrzej’s routine is a closely guarded secret but one thing is guaranteed... it will be brilliant,” Mr Summers added.