COLLETTES mania swept through Queen Elizabeth Hall as the much-loved dance troupe showcased their new season in spectacular style.

With their motto "Pride, passion, Collettes!", around 70 dancers aged from 18 months to 36 struck a pose on the Collettes Dancing Troupe Open Night as they revealed their routines to mums, dads, family and friends ahead of the 2018 season.

Hundreds turned out to support the girls who have spent months perfecting their moves in a bid to clinch another haul of crowns to go alongside last year's MCIAP national and Oldham Dance Off champion accolades.

Special guests included Oldham Mayor, Cllr Shadab Qumer, Oldham businessman Frank Rothwell, who helped launch The Union of Oldham Dance Troupes, and his wife Judith.

A spokesman for Collettes - which was established 55 years ago by Anne Melia who still oversees the group and makes the costumes - said: "The open night was a huge success.

"The room was absolutely packed to the rafters and the dancers put on an amazing show.

"The costumes all looked amazing and the girls really were like stars for the evening.

"The mayor was so impressed he is making a donation towards our cause.

"The night went without a single hiccup and we honestly could not be prouder of everyone in the Collettes. "The feedback from our competitors has even been positive.

"Frank and Judith Rothwell came along to support the event and Frank was complimentary saying the routines will take some beating.

"Overall, we couldn't have been happier, the girls have a few weeks of hard practise now before competitions. They are ready to go and we cant wait to start the season."

The troupe is always on the lookout for sponsors.

If you can help email Gary on gmelia.gm@googlemail.com.

For more information go to the Collettes DanceTroupe Facebook page.