IF you are brave enough to pole dance in front of a live audience you could win yourself £5,000.

Following their hugely successful Text Factor competition, Sin in New Street, Worcester, is holding Strictly Come Pole Dancing.

The talent competition, which starts today, is open to both genders but, so far, no men have even entered.

Paul Todd, who has organised the event, said the boys are being a bit girly.

"The lads all say they are up for it, then chicken out.

"There's a separate prize for the men, so they're missing out by not entering."

Every week competitors will be coached and then judged by professional pole dancing instructor Nicky Jameson. She will be joined by guest judges and every week smaller prizes will be given out for most improvement, best girl and best boy.

Miss Jameson, who runs Pole Angels, has been teaching pole dancing for the past 12 months.

She said it is one of the most fun ways to get fit.

"It's a really good fun and it increases confidence," she said.

"I teach all kinds of fitness, from spinning to aerobics to kickboxing. When I first tried pole dancing, I was amazed. It's fun but also a good workout."

The lessons she is giving at Sin, at 6.30pm every Wednesday, are open to everyone, not just those who are entering the competition. Applications to Strictly Come Pole Dancing are available from Sin and from Bushwackers, Trinity Street, Worcester.

If you want to take part in the group lessons call Miss Jameson on 07803 700559.

To find out more about Pole Angels visit www. poleangels.co.uk