CLOG dancers performed as never before in fishnet tights and tailcoats during the 25th birthday celebration of the Westmorland Step and Garland Dancers.

Helen Birkett, the only member for the whole 25 years, welcomed more than 100 members past and present to the party at the Malt Room, at Kendal's Brewery Arts Centre.

The venue was appropriate as the idea of forming a group to keep traditional Westmorland step dancing alive was first mooted at a clog dance workshop at the Brewery in 1976.

Entertainment came from the folk group Mountain Road, the Appellation Dancers and Kendal' s Egyptian Belly Dancers.

But the highlight of the evening was the party piece of the clog dancers performing in fishnet tights and tailcoats, having left their traditional costumes at home.

l The dancers practise at the Beck Community Centre, Kendal, but from May onwards can be seen dancing out each Monday somewhere locally.

Watch the Gazette, telephone 015396-23273, or visit www.wsgd.org for details.