Troon Concert Hall was alive with the sound of music as people danced the afternoon away at a Christmas Tea Dance.

Tea Dances started in Troon Concert Hall in 1988 and originally were held once a week, but they became so popular that a second afternoon of dancing had to be introduced.  The Tuesday dance session attracts 60 to 70 people and the Thursday session up to 120 people. Dancers from all over the South West of Scotland, including people who regularly travel from Glasgow and the surrounding areas, take part.  Professional organist Alan McPike provides music for the dancers.

Councillor Pam Paterson, the Convener of South Ayrshire Council’s Lifelong Learning Committee joined in the fun at the dance and said:  “Many years ago Troon Concert Hall had a reputation for being a great place to go and dance.  Many couples met there and later went on to marry so for some of the participants returning to Troon to dance is a trip down memory lane. 

“Tea Dances are getting even more popular with the interest in dancing heightened thanks to programmes like Strictly Come Dancing.  It is a great form of exercise and everyone can join in whether they are a beginner or an experienced dancer.  I met Sally Reid, aged 91, who travelled from Glasgow to Troon to take part in the Tea Dance, which shows how much people enjoy the dance.”

The last Tea Dance in 2006 will be on Thursday 21 December, the dance on Tuesday 19 December has unfortunately been cancelled.  Regular Tea Dances on a Tuesday and Thursday will restart on Thursday 4 January 2007.

Anyone who would like further information about the Troon Tea Dances should contact Dawn Whittle, Community Sports Development Officer on telephone number 01292 318555.

Councillor Pam Paterson, Convener of the Council’s Lifelong Learning Committee is pictured with some of the dancers at the Tea Dance in Troon.

Councillor Pam Paterson, Convener of the Council’s Lifelong Learning Committee is pictured with Sally Reid, aged 91, from Glasgow who attends the Tea Dances.

December 2006