Rumours are rife throughout the Eastern Bay of Plenty about who will be participating in Life Education Trust EBOP's ‘Dancing with the Stars'.

The event is a new direction for the charitable trust who in previous years have hosted Fight4Life, a charity boxing event.

Same as with past events however, all proceeds will benefit the charity, which educates and empowers children to make healthy choices so they can live full and healthy lives.

In the old fashioned style of ‘Ladies before Gentlemen', organisers have revealed who some of the stars will be.

One of many familiar faces who will take on the challenge is La Vita and Viva La magazine editor, Virginia Jeeves.

'When I was a young girl I was bullied at school for years, teased about my weight and I do feel it had long term effects,” says Virginia.

'When I was first approached about dancing in the event, I was like ‘cool, how exciting', then a voice in my head said ‘you don't fit the mould'.

'But you know what? The stronger side came out and I said why not.

'I am doing this first and foremost for the charity, what it stands for and to maybe inspire others out there to just go for it.

'I am passionate about Whakatane I love living here and I am also passionate about seeing our town grow. Most importantly I don't take myself too seriously so let's just give this a go.”

Gowing & Co Lawyers practice manager and registered legal executive, Kelly Dench, is another who has put her hand up.

'I recently got married in April 2018 into a blended family with four children between us. Two have flown the nest, and our teenager and six-year old are still at home.

'I decided to sign up for Dancing with the Stars because I love things that put me out of my comfort zone and assist the community.

'However the main reason I'm signing up is my husband. He fought in the Fight4Life charity event in 2016 and it changed his life.

'Not only did he make some important health changes, he met some great people and had an amazing experience. If I get half of what he did out of his experience, then I won't regret it.”

One person who's not shy to a little dancing is Kathryn's Pilates owner Kathryn Coyle, who will also take part in the event.

'I am honoured to be asked to take part in DWTS in October this year and am pleased to be able to support The Life Education trust.

'I'm feeling pretty excited about the whole event, I do so love to dance.”

Kathryn has resided in Whakatane for seven years now, and is proud of the town she lives and works in.

'It's so beautiful here and the people are exceptional.

'My business Kathryn's Pilates has gone from strength to strength. I am passionate about my business and I will bring that same passion and determination to DWTS.”

Monica Julian who, together with her husband Paul, owns Julian's Berry Farm and Cafe, is the final star who has been revealed.

'I was born in Australia, lived there until I was 22 and then travelled the world meeting my husband Paul in Africa and then ended up in New Zealand.

'I watched Paul participate in Fight for Life a few years ago and it was during this event that I learnt about Life Education Trust and all the wonderful work they do.

'When I was asked to be part of DWTS I thought it would be great to challenge myself as I have no dancing bones in my body, but am willing to learn.”

Event organiser Jo Finlay says while many of the dancers have now been shoulder-tapped, there will still be an opportunity for those who are interested to potentially take part.

A public audition will be held in June where the final two competitors will be chosen.