Diane, who is also a qualified psychologist, has been running Chance to Dance classes at the Grange Hall in Coventry Road every Monday since April.

The classes are kept small and personal and include seminars on psychological well-being, nutrition and lifestyle management.

Diane said: “They are ideal for people who are ‘bored stiff with the gym’ or who don’t know how to get back into exercise after sometime years of inactivity.

“An initial survey indicated that people are looking for exercise that is fun, creative, enjoyable and effective.

“Dance is the perfect solution. The emphasis is on health, fitness and enjoyment while acquiring basic dance skills and is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.”

Group member Wendy Hartland said: “Having never seen a ballet dancer that I wouldn't swap bodies with in a heartbeat, plus being bored rigid attending the gym three times a week, I decided to give Diane's class a go.

“It's difficult to decide which is more exhausting - her amazing enthusiasm for dance and exercise or the class itself. You are encouraged to work hard, but always within your own personal limits.”

Diane was classically trained in ballet in Cape Town, South Africa, and has a masters degree in sport and exercise psychology.

She came to England seven years ago and currently works in Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust's adult mental health services, specialising in trauma and post traumatic stress syndrome.

The classes are from 6pm to 7pm. Call 07773 337254 or email dianevdw1@btinternet.com