DANCERS in Bolton are waiting for confirmation that they have helped to create a new world record.

More than 100 zombies performed a “Thrillerthon” at Hayward Leisure Centre on Saturday night, in a bid to break the record for the largest ever simultaneous dance to Michael Jackson’s hit song Thriller.

Nearly 4,000 people across the world are thought to have taken part in Thrill The World, beating last year’s total of 1,722.

Sixty-five places in nine countries are awaiting official confirmation of the new record and the final figure for the number of dancers.

Bolton’s group, which performed at the centre in Morris Green, kicked off their efforts at 7pm, after a live telephone link up to Los Angeles for the countdown.

Dressed and made up as zombies 112 people strutted their stuff for six minutes, closely watched by adjudicators.

Bolton’s results were submitted straight after the dance.

Steve Clegg, who organised Bolton’s part in Thrill The World said he was pleased with how the first event went.

He added: “I think it’s gone fantastically and I’m sure we’ve broken the record.

“This was just a warm up and next year will be even bigger and better.”

All the dancers had a great time and Rimini and Shelby Nuttall, from Bayswater Street, Morris Green, were among the children taking part.

Rimini, aged 10, said: "I think it’s been funny and the best bit was dressing up.”

Seven-year-old Shelby added: “I liked the dressing up. I did it so I was not scared of the Thriller video anymore.”

Iain McKay, aged 35, of Lorton Grove, Breightmet, danced with his daughter Aimy, aged six.

He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed it, it’s been a laugh a minute and I’ll definitely be doing it again next year.”

Marina Petropavlovskaya, aged 17, of Leslie Street, Tonge Moor, joined other members of the Fusion Freestylers dance group in taking part.

She said: “It was a really good opportunity and a once in a lifetime experience.”

It is hoped the event can be held in Victoria Square, Bolton, in 2009.

cherry.thomas@theboltonnews.co.uk