A charity is offering a free month-long dance course in memory of a former UK salsa dance champion killed in a car accident.

Lee Wright, who taught regular dance sessions in Croydon, had been celebrating his 24th birthday in Malaga, when he was killed in a three-car crash in 2008.

Zoe Hodges, of South Croydon, was a good friend of Lee Wright and has been employed by charity Lee Wright Synergy Dance World Memorial Trust to run the course.

She said: “He was a friend of mine who was an aspiration and a pleasure to work and dance with.

“He is dearly missed.”

Mr Wright, who lived in Canary Wharf, had been named UK professional champion two years running, with his dance partner Shelley Cook.

The pair also picked up silver medals at the European Salsa Masters Championships 2006, and even reached the semi-finals at the World Salsa Championships the same year.

The Trust was set up in his memory and has funded workshops and performance courses to develop both the physical and psychological wellbeing of participants.

Miss Hodges said: “I wanted to do something for his charity and I cannot wait to get started on the course knowing he will be watching my every step.”

Established for young people aged 16 to 18, the salsa performance course runs from August 1 to August 29 in the Christ Church, Brighton Road, Purley.

To join call Miss Hodges on 07968 021406 or visit www.leeforever.org.uk