Angela Rippon visits Watford General as part of new campaign

Watford General Hospital was greeted by Angela Rippon on a mission to encourage people to stay active as part of her new campaign.

Star of Strictly Come Dancing, 81 year old Angela Rippon visited Watford General in an effort to portray the benefits of keeping active and making sure you move throughout the day, for all ages and abilities. Her visit is part of a nationwide 'Let's Dance' campaign. 

Rippon has been a legendary icon on British screens for over four decades, starting as a newsreader before becoming known for becoming an advocate for dancing and movement, going on to host predecessor to Strictly Come Dancing- 'Come Dancing' in 1988. She later competed in the modern show at 79 years old in 2023. 

She was also joined by Clare Connor, Chief Executive of The Place and London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS). It was here that they met with Chief Nurse, Kelly McGovern, and other colleagues also. 

Angela spoke to staff about how movement-based activities couls support mobility as a whole and helping to manage conditions that may stop those in an older age group from meeting the NHS-recommended exercise time of 150 minutes per week, whether it be dance or simply going for a brisk walk. 

She said in a statement to the physiotherapy staff at Watford General: 

'When I was asked to do Strictly, I thought I'm much too old for this. But I had a wonderful partner (Kai Waddington), and I agreed to do it. It just reinforced and confirmed everything I already knew about dance- which is that is the best form of exercise for the health and wellbeing of your mind and body. And it's helping me- in my 80s now- where I can hopefully look forward to a long and healthy life.'