Rossendale Leisure Trust has got kids in Lancashire getting up early for school to battle it out in morning dance competitions.

Alder Grange High School has installed eight wireless Xer-Dance platforms and has more than 30 pupils taking part in sessions between 8-8.30am every Wednesday. Their scores are being recorded to crown the winning boy, girl and form in each year group and a dance mat champion of the school.

Lisa Ripley, school sports co-ordinator at Alder Grange said: “The kids are really excited about the dance platforms.

“Not only are they a great, fun way for the kids to get fit, the early dance contest means the pupils are more alert and ready for the school day. The inter-class competition has been so popular that we are planning an inter-schools competition for the New Year.”

Aimee Giles, PR and communications officer for Rossendale Leisure Trust, which manages the gym and sports hall out of school hours added: “We have also invited all local clubs and junior schools to join us for free taster sessions, and plan to include the new equipment in our GP Referral Exercise on Prescription Scheme too.”

The school has also bought three Sportwalls, for a total investment in new equipment from supplier ZigZag of £30,000.