A DANCE workshop for special needs children is holding a fundraising event with the help of Roy Castle's widow.

Charity Productions runs dance workshops for children with special needs to introduce them to the fun and freedom of self-expression of dance.

The group, the first of its kind in the country, is hoping to raise £2,000 at a luncheon tomorrow at the Hall Garth Country House Hotel, Coatham Mundeville, near Darlington.

Fiona Castle, a former dancer, will be speaking at the event, which starts at noon.

Organiser Pauline Aitken said: "The children benefit in so many ways. Workshops help their concentration, frees them up physically and gives them an opportunity to work together.

"The final performance for parents and friends at the end of the workshop is an opportunity for them to see just what the children are capable of.

"It is also a great deal of fun and the children's evident pleasure alone makes it worthwhile."

The workshops are taught by two dance teachers from the Royal Academy of Dance, in London.

They work with dance teachers to help ensure that dance becomes a regular feature in special needs schools.

Teachers sponsored by the charity will continue to work with children throughout the year.