NORTHERN Heights Dance School has been selected as a finalist in The Lanes Shopping Centre's £1,000 Community Fund. 

The school, which is located on Nelson Street, is an all-ages dance school that opened in September 2022 with 'the dream of changing and improving people’s lives through dance.'

As part of The Lanes' Community Fund, which was launched in April, Northern Heights Dance School was selected by a panel of judges as one of six finalists who would be in the running for the funding. 

After being chosen as a finalist, Northern Heights Dance School explained more about itself.

They said: "Located in Carlisle, Northern Heights welcomes all members of the community to dance with us.

(Image: Supplied) "We are committed to providing a safe, positive environment where all students can feel empowered and free to express themselves.

 "We are proud to have over 170 students enrolled with us and over 25 classes on offer a week."

The dance school also explained what it would do with the £1,000 fund if it was selected as a winner.

They said: "Funding plays a vital role in supporting our studio, such as facility maintenance and improvement, equipment upgrades, professional development and performance opportunities. 

"We are one of the most affordable dance schools in the area charging just £3.75-£5.75 per session.

"Plus we provide free rehearsals and performance opportunities on top of selling costumes and essential uniforms at cost price.

"We do this to engage with the local community and promote dance as an accessible art form.

"Our next project is to replace the floor in our small studio, the main studio was completed in April this year costing £3,500.

(Image: Supplied) "We are reliant on fundraising to do this. With sufficient funding we can improve the overall dance experience for both students and instructors, attracting more people and increasing revenue.

"With increased revenue, we can improve our programs, hire more guest instructors, and keep offering accessible dance lessons to all."

Voting for The Lanes Shopping Centre's £1,000 Community Fund opened on Tuesday, August 27 via the shopping centre's Facebook page. 

Voting will close on Tuesday, September 3, with the recipient of the fund set to be announced shortly after and locals are encouraged to support their favourite before the public voting period concludes.