Formed: 1954

Members: 35

Meets: Friday evenings, from September, Lindale Village Hall

Contact: Secretary Helen Nixon on 01524-781048

 

THE Lakes Scottish Country Dancing Club took its first steps with dancing classes set up in Ambleside 60 years ago.

The classes at the town’s YMCA – now the Kelsick Centre – were first held under the auspices of the Westmorland Education Authority and the club which resulted was soon flourishing.

After a few years, social dances were held in the YMCA, particularly at Hogmanay, and a tradition of regular social dances has continued over the years.

In 1964, a dance class was started in Brigsteer followed by a transfer of the Ambleside YMCA class to the Lakes School at Troubeck Bridge.

The club held its first Country Dance Ball in 1969 at the Lakes School, with music provided by David White’s Band.

A few years later the dancing was to Iain Macphail’s Band.

In 1970, the dancing classes separated from the Westmorland Education Authority and have continued over the years under the guidance of various teachers.

The longest serving was Bill Newby, who ably guided the classes in the early years and is still remembered by older members of the club.

The club now meets on Friday evenings from mid-September in Lindale Village Hall.

Its 60th anniversary will be celebrated on Saturday (June 28) with a ball at Windermere School, with music provided by Robert Whitehead’s Danelaw Band and a programme of dances from previous balls.

The event will be attended by current and past members and teachers and guests from neighbouring clubs.

* Do you have a club you'd like to feature, send details and a photograph to allan.tunningley@kendal.newsquest.co.uk