Withernsea became the latest venue to host a tea dance. The Pavilion Leisure Centre provided the place, and Paul Silvester of East Riding sport and development, along with colleague Adam Toes, came up with the idea. I must admit that I went out of curiosity as much as anything else, as both my partner and myself have only 4 left feet between us. Not wishing to go home with bruised toes we decided to give the floor a miss, even though the music had our feet tapping along.

However many people did venture up, and there were some amazingly good dancers there. Far more people than anticipated arrived and paid their £1 admission. In the end about 60 people came through the doors, much to the surprise and delight of the organisers. 2 more dates have been added on 6th April and 20th April admission £1.50, when it is hoped that enough people will support these dances, then maybe they can be put on at 2 week intervals.

Certainly when I chatted to some of the participants, there was a positive response with many saying they would be at the next one. Personally I would have loved to have joined in, and feel dancing lessons in Withernsea would be a very welcome addition. In fact if this takes off, there is the possibility of some lessons being arranged. Maybe the wrong way round, as lessons could encourage more people to the tea dances as they will feel they can take part and not make a fool of themselves.

This is gentle exercise for the more mature citizen, as well as a wonderful social occasion. I do hope that many more people become involved and help to make it the success it deserves to be. On todays showing, there is certainly a niche here waiting to be filled. The tea dance was made possible by working in partnership with age concern. Also the jog along project is part of a national scheme called run in england,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9qUuwmcfik