Tea dance a cup of cheer

A free tea dance aimed at tackling social isolation among senior Highland residents is to return for a second edition next month

People who enjoy music and meeting people are being invited to the get-together on July 29.

More than 60 people turned out to the first tea dance, held in March.

Organiser Martin Mackay, who plays shellac records on traditional gramophones, says the second event is in response to demand, with two further tea dances already planned for later in the year.

He said: “We organised the first tea dance in response to hearing a lot about the elderly in our community feeling isolated – and the afternoon really brought people together.

“We hope lots of people will come along again to enjoy the music, tea and cake – and

“The afternoon really brought people together”

maybe a spot of dancing too.”

An array of homemade cakes were specially created for the day by the local Tesco community team, who are again supporting the summer event, and even paying for the cost of the hall hire.

The event will run between 2pm-4.30pm at Smithton Church Hall

A limited number of free tickets can be obtained at The Dunbar Centre on Church Street.

Entertainment will be provided by Mr Mackay, with live music from local singer Alison Gilbert, accordion playing by Frankie Fraser, and a performance from singer-songwriter Emma Mitchell.

Co-organiser Nicola McAlley said: “We couldn’t believe how many people came to the first tea dance so it makes sense to try to hold them regularly.”