Guernsey Retro

Guernsey Retro organises a range of dance and music events to raise funds for 12 other Guernsey charities each year. 
In its fifth year, the charity’s annual Strictly-esque ballroom competition, Guernsey You Can Dance, has raised £80,000 for local charities to date.
‘It’s a big family affair at Guernsey Retro. Coming together as a community is the most rewarding part,’ said Vanessa James, who was honoured to hear of her team’s nomination. 
‘Our team of 10, all volunteers, helps in all departments from choreography to putting up glitter balls, selling raffle tickets and organising menus. What works is that we are all friends with a joie de vivre and want to deliver something that inspires people,’ said Guernsey Retro chairman Jeff Fox.
The charity also puts on Wheelchairography, a mixed-ability dance group – which is always looking for more people in wheelchairs, and people to push the wheelchairs, to join.
‘It’s great to see smiles on peoples’ faces who used to dance and are now in wheelchairs getting to dance again,’ said Ms James.
‘Guernsey You Can Dance has become one of the greatest arts events of the year,’ said nominator James Falla. ‘This year I was privileged to play a part in an unbelievable experience.
‘Vanessa James, Jeff Fox and the team do an incredible job not only ensuring that the dancing is as good as can be, but putting on a sensational weekend celebration of dance.’
Ms James said: ‘Guernsey You Can Dance is getting bigger and better. It’s been a huge success.' 
The team is already in the planning stages for the music and choreography for next May's GYCD competition.