MAJORETTES from Oxford are practising their lifts and twists in preparation for a charity event next year.

The youngsters from the Strawberry Fayre Majorettes are warming up for the British Red Cross's Dance for Life next April.

They are planning to choreograph a new routine for the fundraising performance at The Amey Theatre at Abingdon School in April.

Georgina Morris is pictured practising a lift.

Troupe founder Eileen Filer, of Church Cowley Road, Oxford, said the group was also planning a series of fundraising events starting with a bric-a-brac stall in the new year.

She said: "The Dance for Life is an annual event and this year they have decided to do it in Oxfordshire. It is like a little competition, a variety show."

The Strawberry Fayre Majorettes have appeared at events across the county, including carnivals in Bicester and Eynsham, the Headington Festival, Christmas lights switch-ons and the Lord Mayor's Parade in Oxford.

The troupe has 36 girls aged between four and 15. It also has two flag boys who join the group for parades - but is appealing for more boys to help them do higher lifts.

As well as pom-poms, batons and parasols, the group hopes to include feather fans in its routines.

The troupe, formed in 1992, meets at Headington Community Centre in Gladstone Road every Monday from 7.15-9.15pm. For more information, see www.strawberryfayre majorettes.co.uk or call 01865 717781.