KENT-based dance outfit Group 185 are starting to reap the rewards of their labour with a record deal and album out in HMV.

Formed several years ago by three devotees of trance music, they have gathered a strong following at a number of large-scale and private events throughout the county and in London with their hi-energy beats.

As founder member Dave 185 (as he likes to be known) explained, he turned his back on a travelling lifestyle to settle down in Chartham with a job as a mental health worker.

This allowed him enough spare time to focus on the group with his old friend Mike.

Dave, 36, became hooked on dance music after seeing a live techno band in the1990s and was determined to set up his own project.

From humble beginnings playing at a friend’s birthday party in Canterbury, the act, which was named after his e-mail address, now has serious potential.

He said: "We have struggled for some time for anyone to do anything on us because people seem to be scared off because we are a dance act.

"But we are just normal, every-day people with ordinary jobs."

Setting up a studio at his home, the group secured a record deal from dance producer Kevin Energy, which came as a total shock to them.

Dave says that subsequent live gigs proved great and has even encouraged his other half, Lesley to become a dancer for their live gigs.

Speaking on their album, he added: "It's fantastic and a really good feeling to know that we have an album out with a major chain store.

"It is selling really well in one store up in Camden at them moment where it’s being played a lot."

For latest gig listings see the website www.group185.com.