When the performers from Pam Freedman's dance school take to the stage at the New Empire Theatre on Monday, they know they will be doing it to help other people.

All the money raised by the dancers, aged from just three years old, will be going to the Leukemia unit of Middlesex Hospital.

The reason that they are dancing in Southend for a London Hospital is simple.

When Pam Freedman's younger son Dean was just 15 he developed the killer blood disease: "At that time there was no leukemia unit at Southend," explained Pam. "As he was still classed as a child he had to go all the way to London for treatment."

Thankfully three months ago Dean was told that he is now clear of the disease and Pam wants to thank the hospital for his care.

Tickets for the shows Monday to Wednesday at 7.30pm and on Wednesday evening are available from the New Empire Theatre, Alexander Street, Southend, or call 01702 353577.

Sweet charity - some of the girls from Pam Freedman's school who are appearing at the New Empire Theatre Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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