STUCK for a Christmas present for the missus? How about a six-week beginner pole dancing course?

Becky Rose, of Sharp Shooters Entertainments, accepts a slap in the face might be the response but claims it is the new fitness craze sweeping the nation.

Over the yuletide season Becky and her pal Zara Groves have been wandering the streets of Chester in skimpy Santa outfits handing out leaflets encouraging men to get their loved one a stocking filler with a difference.

Becky, 23, who lives in Willaston and is studying Nutrition, said: 'It's mainly for keep fit and is good for your flexibility as well as being fun and sexy. In the first week women come in cycling shorts and the next they're in hotpants and high heels! It's great fun once you get over the nervousness.

'Pole dancing is more fun than the gym. It is becoming the new fitness craze. Celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Kate Moss are doing it.

'It's not like the gym where you are performing monotonous tasks and getting really bored. It's more about personal expression.'

The girls will be running pole dancing lessons in function rooms but also sell and hire poles so trainees can strut their stuff in the comfort of their own home.

To spice up a Christmas party for men or women, the girls will also arrive at your house with their portable podium pole for a performance which aims to get people in the mood for fun.

Becky says her boyfriend is 'supportive' and doesn't really suffer from jealousy when she is performing in front of other men.

A pole dancing taster session costs £15 and a course is £100 for six 90-minute sessions. For more details go to www. sharp-shooters.co.uk or ring 07813 147 584.