Hannah's 'dream' to become first Down syndrome zumba instructor

Hannah Payton, from Atherton, is said to be incredibly active, and has won multiple medals representing Great Britain in the Special Olympics, in swimming and badminton.

Nevertheless, she has always loved dancing and during the pandemic, zumba became her 'main passion' as she completed online classes while shielding at home.

Gaining popularity over the last few years, zumba is a fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves, alternating fast and slow rhythms to help improve health and fitness.

Falling in love with the sessions, it quickly became Hannah's 'dream' to become an instructor and follow her passion full-time.

Hannah fell in love with zumba sessions during the pandemic

With the support of instructors at Zumba Feel the Heat in Atherton, Hannah will gain her official qualifications via an online course on Sunday, October 10.

Hannah's mum Jutta described Hannah as a "very active, sporty, independent girl who loves music, dance and zumba".

She also volunteers at the Memory Tea Room in Atherton, the Lowry Theatre in Salford, and a kennells in Tyldesley.

Jutta said: "Hannah has always wanted to do something with dance, and now she can't wait to complete the course.

"She can barely sleep she is that happy."

While her zumba instructors have been an "inspiration" to Hannah, Jutta explained how the dance sessions have also massively helped with her disability; where she keeps active, follows her passion and meets new people.

Jutta added: "She is so enthusiastic, she inspires all the others within the group."

Jutta's social media post celebrating Hannah's goal was inundated with positive comments from local people wishing her well, with the Over Hulton Community Group in Manchester inviting her to put classes on for their residents once she is qualified.

Explaining her love for the dance sessions, Hannah said: "I do zumba five days a week. It's my favourite hobby."