A NEW dance class will get women shaking themselves in to shape this year. For women in Torfaen can pick up a little Eastern promise by learning the Arabian art of belly-dancing free of charge.

The Parents Plus scheme, funded by the European Social Fund, offers women the opportunity to learn for nothing. And one of the courses on offer is Middle Eastern belly-dancing, taught by Griffithstown woman Rachel Jones.

Rachel, 31, said: "I've been belly-dancing for six years, but I've always been quite fascinated by Middle Eastern dance.

"I started going to classes and it just grew from there, really. I got bitten by the bug. "It's a really good, enjoyable, fun way to exercise. It's brilliant for improving your self-esteem and self-confidence.

"Belly-dancing improves your posture, it really tones you up, it's very good for your muscles. And it helps people to really love themselves as they are.

"The popular image is of revealing costumes, but in Egypt they dance in full dress and you can even cover your face. If a lady did feel she was too fat I can say that you don't have to expose yourself at all.

"It's not just for gorgeous young things.

"It's a bit like singing the blues - you need to have been through it a bit. "It's very expressive and very soulful, so it's actually easier for older ladies than it is for an 18-year-old.

"It'll help you get and keep fit, and it's a great chance to get to know other people, as well."

Other subjects on offer include homeopathy, Welsh for beginners, massage and aromatherapy, deaf sign language and interior design. There's even a free creche. Co-ordinator Angela Jones said: "We're targeting people who've made a few New Year's resolutions.

"There's a course about family health, there's belly-dancing to get fit - and a big pull is the free creche."

l Any woman aged between 16 and 69, resident in Torfaen and unemployed or working fewer than 16 hours a week is eligible to take a free course. They are mostly in the daytime and around Torfaen from Croesyceiliog to Trevethin.

For further details contact Sue on 07980 682442, Gill on 07980 682226, or Angela on 07980 682440.