SALSA and sleep combine unexpectedly in an innovative new dance class in Davenham.

Slingsalsa is aimed at new mums with babies and toddlers who are struggling to make time to keep fit.

Former professional dancer Jody Yates came up with the concept after having her baby Theo in 2011.

“After I had my son, who’s now two, I struggled to find something I could go along to and really work out that had a dance feel to it,” she said.

“That’s how I came up with the idea just to create one myself.”

At the weekly classes mums dance with their babies in a sling, which has the unexpected side effect of lulling the little ones to sleep.

Jody, who trained in Latin and ballroom with Len Goodman, said: “The babies were a bit whingey at first but then the music started and we didn’t hear a peep from them.”

She runs classes in conjunction with Mid Cheshire Sling Library and Sarah Gregory, from the library, is on hand to hire out slings and give advice.

The dancing itself takes half an hour but there are sessions before and after for mums to meet, have tea or coffee and chat to Sarah.

Jody said: “There’s a nice salsa feel to it without it being high impact.

“It’s nice and easy for people to pick up and we keep it to 30 minutes because it’s just enough for mums with the extra weight of the baby.

“Some of the mums have never worn a sling or a carrier before so it’s great that Sarah is here to offer advice and hire.

Sarah said: “There’s no over-exertion at the classes but you do build up a sweat.

“Northwich can be a bit dull at times so slingsalsa brings a bit of spice in and including the babies is great.”

Slingsalsa classes are held at 1.15pm every Monday at Davenham Methodist Church, in Firth Fields.

Admission is £5 and slings are £1 to hire.

For more information visit slingsalsa.com.