More than 500 dancers raised thousands of pounds in memory of one of Britain’s greatest entertainers.

Dancers of all ages and abilities filled North Bridge Leisure Centre, Halifax, for the 18th annual Roy Castle Tapathon yesterday.

Scholes-born Roy – a dancer, singer, musician and comedian – died from lung cancer in 1994 aged 62, despite being a non-smoker.

The Tapathon, originally organised by Roy’s friends Derek and Vera Hamer, raises cash for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

In 2011 Janet Austin, principal of Janet Austin Tappers, took over the event from the Brighouse couple who danced alongside Roy in the 1940s and 50s.

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The event, which this year attracted 16 dance schools and around 1,000 spectators, is expected to raise more than £10,000 for Roy’s charity.

Janet believes the Tapathon is on course to raise £250,000 when the event celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2016.

Janet, who was yesterday helped by her children and friends, said: “By our 20th event I really hope we can raise £250,000. I understand times are hard but I think we can do it.”

Participating Huddersfield dance schools this year included Strickland-Cook Theatre School and Adele Taylor School of Dance while Karen Binns Stage School, Elland, and Dance Arena Ballet and Stage School, Stainland, helped make up the Calderdale contingent.

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Janet added: “When I heard Derek and Vera were retiring I felt I had to keep it going – and everyone likes doing it.

“It’s a brilliant day. There’s a real buzz about it.

“It’s the most tiring day of my year but it’s so worth it. There isn’t a moment where I think I wouldn’t do it.”

Over the last 18 years the Tapathon has raised more than £220,000 for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. For more information about the charity visit www.roycastle.org or call 0333 323 7200.