A FLEET-FOOTED couple have started up weekly afternoon tea dances near Melksham.

Long-time dancers Angela and Mike Dale, from Westbury, have been involved with social tea dances in Reading, Cornwall and Westbury over the years and Mrs Dale has competed at a high level for many years.

On Tuesday they held their first afternoon in Broughton Gifford Village Hall after two and a half years of leading sessions in Westbury and are hoping to see lots of new faces at next week’s dance.

Mrs Dale, 57, said: “We have recently spent a considerable amount of time looking for somewhere to accommodate our expanding circle of dancers and finding Broughton Gifford was well worth the search.

“The hall is so clean, light and airy and has a well-kept and large wooden dance floor. It has a good deal of ‘springiness’ – perfect for dancing.

“The venue is fully equipped for our needs with all the facilities needed to ensure everyone is comfortable.

“It even has air-conditioning as well as heating and there is plenty of free on-site parking, just behind the Fox pub.

“These afternoon tea dances are ideal for those who enjoy sequence, modern and Latin American dancing, having a cup of tea and coffee with home-made fare and just as importantly, socialising with friends as well as making new friends.

“Beginners and singles alike are always very welcome.”

The afternoon dances consist of a 50/50 mix of ballroom, Latin American and sequence, all of which are set to carefully selected and appropriate music.

The dances are from 2pm to 4pm, breaking around 3pm for home-made refreshments, all of which are included in the admission price of £4 per person.

The next dance is at 2pm on Tuesday, May 16 and weekly from then on.

For more information, call Mrs Dale on either 01373 229319 or 07899 9556969, or Mr Dale on 07717 682284.