Dance award launched to celebrate late Strictly star

A new award has been created to celebrate the life of late Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor.

The professional dancer, from Ipswich, died last year, aged 44. His cause of death has not been given.

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and mental health charity Sane - of which Windsor was an ambassador - said the Robin Windsor Award would be given to "an individual whose mental health has been transformed by dance" and who would "benefit from receiving extra mentorship and funding".

The winner will receive a prize of £500 and a dance lesson with a leading dance professional.

Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the RAD, said: "In memory of Robin Windsor, the RAD and Sane have launched an award that honours Robin's passion for dance and his dedication to mental health advocacy. 

"Robin believed deeply in the power of movement to heal, uplift and connect. This award seeks to recognise dancers who embody that same spirit."

Marjorie Wallace CBE, Chief Executive of SANE said: "Robin spoke bravely about his struggles, hoping to help others feel less alone. We at SANE are proud to honour his legacy through this new award, in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Dance."

Windsor started his dancing lessons at the Ipswich School of Dance, aged three.

During his time on Strictly, Windsor was partnered with Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson and Lisa Riley, and won the 2011 Children In Need special with presenter Susanna Reid.

He was also partnered with Alison Hammond and Sara Cox on Strictly Christmas specials and is the only person to have performed on Broadway, the West End and Strictly Come Dancing in the same year.