THERE are some who question Gavin Henson's decision to appear on Strictly Come Dancing.

But in the city of his team, the Ospreys, it seems there are hundreds of amateur dancers who quite understand his desire.

The popularity of the celebrity dance contest is so high that producers, the BBC, have launched a Strictly roadshow, to encourage the nation to get up onto their feet and dance.

Swansea is one of five towns across the UK where events are being held throughout October, using local dance companies and a link-up on big BBC screens, so fans and families learn what is needed to take to the floor like their favourite Strictly stars.

And despite a miserable start to the day, it seemed even the weather got in to the swing of things, with clouds clearing and sun shining down on Castle Square, where scores of keen dancers — and some curious shoppers — descended to take the cha cha chance to learn a few moves.

Among them was Stephanie Day, who had travelled from her Carmarthenshire home in Talley, especially to attend.

The mum-of-two said: "It was my daughter who got me into it, and we are always watching Strictly.

"It is great fun, and it keeps you fit, and you meet fab people.

"I came to Swansea today especially to take part in some of their workshops".

The television link-up included demonstrations by Strictly alumna Karen Hardy and was complemented by live instructions from Swansea- based dancers, who had shoppers putting down their bags to learn a few moves.

Nelson Garcia, originally from Venezuela, has been running dance class Salsa Today for more than four years, teaching hundreds of eager dance pupils across Swansea and the Swansea Valley.

After giving a demonstration to shoppers on how it should be done, he said: "There is so much that it is great about salsa.

"It is a great way to meet new people and enjoy yourself.

"It helps you to relax and relieve stress, and it is a great way to exercise, without you really realising it.

"I am passionate about South America, and it has been great fun teaching it here for the past few years.

"And every time Strictly comes on the television, there is an increase in the amount of people who come along".

Also leading the way was former Welsh and British Latin American dance champion Lissa Williams, who runs Let's Dance ballroom and Latin classes.

Between dances she said: "This is about trying to get everyone from Swansea up and dancing.

"It doesn't matter what age you are, we have people in our classes in their 80s.

"It is good fun and you meet all sorts of people.

"Strictly has got everyone watching it on television, who are coming back for more".

Clinic manager Sian Jones, from Brynhyfryd, added: "Salsa keeps you fit — it is much better than going to the gym!"

To learn more, visit www.salsatoday.co.uk or www.letsdancewales.co.uk

nino.williams@swwmedia.co.uk