PICTURES: Team Thursday finalists named as Strictly Inverness gets into full swing

THE countdown to the main event for Strictly Inverness has started with the first dancers making the grand final on Saturday being named.

Last night saw couples from Team Thursday show their best moves to try and convince the judges they deserve a spot in the last showdown.

Winners on the first night were Natalie Marshall and Stevie Strang.

Karen Newmam and Krys Rabiej, Mhairi Fraser and Dean Bell and Andrea Manson and Gordie Simpson also gained a spot in the final.

Judging the performances were Grahame Love, Alyssa Nicol and John Summers-Campbell, with Brian Elrick hosting the event.

Highland Hospice's communications officer, Wendy Morgan said: "It was an incredible first heat, tough competition and all acts were of such a great standard. The atmosphere was electric!

"We are now so excited for tonight –with three different judges to last nights line up, anything is possible.

"Thanks to all of Team Thursday for being such stars and putting in huge effort - and to all those who attended last night or supported them."

Tonight will see Team Friday contestants compete to go through to the big night this weekend.

So far, the fundraising efforts have seen just under £170,000 raised for Highland Hospice.

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