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MEDIA RELEASE
Issued: October 13, 2015
PICTURES: Pictures can be viewed and downloaded HERE
PIC 1 - Anita Berkley, The Dream Factory charity's founder Avril Mills, X-Factor contestant Che Chesterman and Zumbathon organiser Michelle Regan
PIC 2 - The Dream Factory founder Avril Mills and X-Factor contestant Che Chesterman
PIC 3 - Some of the Zumbathon participants
Charity Zumbathon raises over £4,000 for The Dream Factory
A multi-themed four-hour Zumbathon held in memory of a Zumba instructor and singer/songwriter has raised over £4,000 for The Dream Factory charity.
The event, held in Laindon on Saturday, October 3, was organised by Michelle Regan in memory of David Jonson.
Michelle said: "David was a confidant, friend and someone loved and adored by his class members. He was an ear and a shoulder to cry on and his interest did not end in class.
"He would often call members out of class checking on them, helping them or advising them whether about diet or medical or personal issues.
"He had a wicked sense of humour that had classes often in hysterics. Sadly we lost him suddenly in May from a heart seizure in his sleep. He was only 36. It left us all totally devastated."
David had held an annual Zumbathon for charity.
This year Gay Pride, Mardi Gras and Carnival was chosen as the theme producing an event full of colour, happiness and love.
X-Factor contestant Che Chesterman opened the event with a song dear to David's heart, 'Dance with my Father'.
Michelle said: "It was a very emotional event. Everyone arrived in bright, fantastic colours of the rainbow and the sight was amazing!
"We had belly dancers and Brazillian dancers (TasteofBrasil) perform as well as Zumba instructors. We held two amazing raffles with fantastic prizes donated by local companies which included holidays abroad, televisions and trips for shows and meals in London.
"David would have absolutely loved the event and been so proud of what we achieved. It was a perfect way to honour him."
The Dream Factory founder Avril Mills joined in the event along other Zumba enthusiasts including Dee Alderton - wife of comedian and The Dream Factory patron Terry Alderton - and Dee's friend Anita Berkley.
Miss Mills said: "I was overwhelmed to see so many people taking part and in such great spirit.
"Michelle was amazing to put the event together and has an amazing following. It was so much fun and we all definitely burned off some calories!
"Well done to everyone who donated their time and many thanks to all those who came and everyone who donated prizes.
"I would really like to do a similar event in the Epping, Chigwell and Loughton area.
"The fabulous amount raised will go towards making more dreams come true."
PICTURES: Pictures can be viewed and downloaded HERE
PIC 1 - Anita Berkley, The Dream Factory charity's founder Avril Mills, X-Factor contestant Che Chesterman and Zumbathon organiser Michelle Regan
PIC 2 - The Dream Factory founder Avril Mills and X-Factor contestant Che Chesterman
PIC 3 - Some of the Zumbathon participants
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