Ness Factor star takes on Strictly Inverness in tribute to cousin
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A talented singer is hoping he can master some fancy footwork in a bid to raise more money for Highland Hospice.
Sean MacIver was one of the Ness Factor 2023 performers, who together raised £86,000 for charity in October.
The 22-year-old, from Inverness, is taking part in the annual dance contest in tribute to his cousin who was cared for by the hospice.
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"Ness Factor was the best thing I have ever done in my life," said the pupil support assistant at Drummond School. "I met so many amazing people and formed a new family.
"The reason I got involved in Ness Factor is because I have always had a passion for singing and also wanted to do something to help the hospice after everything they have done. They were so supportive of my cousin Paul, who sadly passed away two years ago. He was only 29 years old and they helped him towards the end. I’m just so grateful for that.
"One of my very close colleagues has also been diagnosed with cancer and I wanted to do Strictly as a way to thank her for being so amazing and supportive of me when I first started my job.
"I feel like I’ll be still quite heavily involved with the hospice after I do Strictly. I’m already participating in a fundraiser for them outwith strictly coming up on January 27 at Inverness Botanic Gardens – a lovely country night with all the Ness Factor contestants from past and present showing up which will be excellent."
Sean has been paired with Niamh Mcauley, from Nairn, and they are among the 16 dance partnerships who will compete at Inverness Ice Centre in May.
Donations will go towards the venue and the hospice.
Tomorrow, dancers will find out more about fundraising and what dances they will learn.
"I honestly can’t wait for my Strictly journey to begin," Sean said. "I have already met some amazing people and I'm really looking forward to working with my partner Niamh. I can’t wait to see what we bring to the competition as a team and watch this space for fundraisers coming up soon."
