A TEENAGER whose father died of cancer ten years ago is putting on her dancing shoes to raise money for the East Lancashire Hospice.

Danielle Oddie from Beardwood, Blackburn, was nine when her father Graham died from skin cancer and is taking part in a dance show to thank' the hospice which cared for him.

Now aged 19, trainee accountant Danielle is urging people to support the Danzwise charity fundraiser by members of the Dance Factory, based in York Terrace, Feniscowles.

Danzwise takes place today at King George's Hall from 6.30pm and on Saturday from 7.30pm.

Danielle said: "The help the hospice gave to my dad was amazing, so raising money for this cause means a lot to me.

"The hospice relies on donations, which is why I am urging people to come along to Danzwise.

"Everyone is practising really hard to ensure the show is a success and we are hoping for a packed audience on both show nights."

Danielle was just five years old when her father was diagnosed with the disease. He died in July 1997 after developing three tumours in his brain.

She said: "I didn't really understand what was happening.

"I remember my mum sat us down and said we couldn't go on holiday because my dad wouldn't be there.

"The first time it really hit me was when I started St Wilfrid's High School.

"It was awkward; nobody knew about my dad and everyone would ask what your mum and dad did for a living and I had to explain that he had died of cancer. He used to help me with everything. It was hard when he wasn't there anymore "

Danielle is one of about 70 dancers who is taking to the stage. Stephen Anderson, managing partner at PM&M chartered accountants, East Park Road, Blackburn, said: "Danielle's dedication, not only to her work here, but also to her dancing which is remarkable."

Danielle will be performing a mixture of ballet, tap, musical theatre, technical jazz and jazz funk on the night.

Tickets cost between £8 and £5 and are available from King George's Hall box office on 01254 582582.