Improved confidence, self-esteem and increased holistic health and well-being are just a few of the benefits young people can gain through themed dance this summer.

City of York Council's dance and health related exercise lessons proved such a hit with pupils and teachers at Lowfield School that an out-of-hours dance club will be set up throughout the summer holidays.

Funding for the club has been secured by the council from the Teenage Pregnancy Unit, part of Selby and York Primary Care Trust. The club will provide workshops focussing on two main issues that affect young people - positive relationships and stereotyping peer/media pressure. The dance teacher will support the young people to choreography themed dances based around these workshop discussions.

Mel Moon, dance teacher for this programme, said: "It is a brilliant opportunity for young people to get involved in creating their own dances and to have their say in issues affecting young people. I am looking forward to guiding the young people through the programme but equally looking forward to giving them the freedom to express themselves and lead on their programme."

Eleven sessions for 11 to 16 year olds are planned for Thursday afternoons from 4.00 - 5.00pm. They start on Thursday, 10 July and will be held at Our Lady's Parish Centre, Cornlands Road, Acomb.

Anyone wanting to take part in the sessions should contact Lorraine Murphy on 01904 553388