Greenock pole dancers to dazzle audiences at charity event

Jemma McLaughlin, aka Tiny Temptress, is hosting a fabulous bash at Cruden Hall in Greenock on Saturday in aid of Breast Cancer Care.

Jemma, 32, who is classically trained, has been teaching pole dancing for 10 years and is keen to promote its merits.

She told the Tele: “It has an unhealthy stigma but that has to change.

“Pole dancing is very acrobatic, it helps develop skills and a belief in your own body and your own body’s ability.” Jemma and students will perform at the charity event following a champage reception, while there will also be music from singer Stephanie Lavelle.

Topless waiters will add to the fun atmosphere and there will be entertainment with a DJ and Halloween-themed disco plus a raffle to help raise funds.

She was inspired by her cousin who has recently battled breast cancer to raise funds for the charity. Jemma said: “My cousin has just overcome breast cancer, so it is a charity close to my heart.

“The event is for women — it’s a feminine thing. By getting together, we can grow in confidence together and we can learn together. Breast cancer is something that affects all women. Once we get together we can fight cancer and get the support we need.” Jemma has a degree in dance, specialising in classical ballet, contemporary dance and jazz and is a former pupil of Linda Jackson Dance Academy, where she studied Highland Dancing.

She worked in London for many years — including at the famous Pineapple Studios — before returning home five years ago and she now teaches locally through her business Temptress Dance.

Jemma runs pole dancing classes and ladies dance sessions for women aged 17+ at Greenock Sports Centre on Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

She said: “Pole is brilliant for your confidence, to get fit, for meeting people, socialising and it’s also a good therapy session as well.” Saturday’s charity event starts at 7.30pm and entry costs £5 at the door or you can arrange tickets by contacting Jemma on Facebook.