LATIN fever is taking over at York's Rock Church.

Fans of television show Strictly Come Dancing can now mimic the moves of celebrities Jill Halfpenny, Denise Lewis and Carol Voderman at the city's Rock Academy Of Dance.

Joel Chapman and his partner, Sarah Dickinson, are behind the charge to covert us all to latin american and ballroom dancing at the Rock Church, on Priory Street.

The couple, who are preparing for the UK Open later this year, say there's a Latin dancer in everyone waiting to come out.

He said: "There's been a surge of interest in dancing nationally because of Strictly Come Dancing.

"It's such a fun style of dancing, there's a big social aspect to it and, of course, in these styles you can dance with a partner as well."

Joel and Sarah train with the professional dancers who took part in the last series of the BBC TV hit show, including Lilia Kopylova, Darren Bennet and Nicole Cutler.

Nicole, their main teacher, provided the entertainment for Elton John's 50th birthday party - dancing sambas, cha chas, rumbas and jives in his back garden.

Now beginners, intermediates or professionals in waiting are being urged to see what all the fuss is about at one of York's best kept secrets.

Joel said: "We teach routines to the same level and higher as that on the last show (Strictly Come Dancing).

"Our core team at the academy has also performed at the Opera House, Monks Cross, Parliament Street and at various schools and colleges.

"There is definitely a secret dancer in all of us. We have taught all kinds of people, from those with mobility problems, to top dancers.

"You don't have to be amazing. It's the experience that's the main thing."

The school also teaches ballet, contemporary, hip hop, fitness and street jazz.

For more information on how to enrol, phone the school on 01904 659475 or email danceacademy@rockchurch.org.uk

Updated: 10:24 Thursday, January 27, 2005