A FOLK dancing group in Bidford-on-Avon is set to mark 60 years of toe tapping during a special celebration held at the Crawford Hall.

Bidford Folk Dances started in 1955 after John Masterson moved to the village and wanted revive Morris dancing with local boys at the village junior school and organise a dance in the village.

After its success further dances were arranged and it became a regular occasion.

On Saturday, April 18 folk dancers from Bidford-on-Avon and the surrounding district are invited to attend the anniversary celebration.

During the celebration musicians Phil Taylor (piano accordion), Tony Critchley (bass guitar), Dave Reeves (guitar) and Rebecca Hare (fiddle) from Bidford Square Dance Band will be accompanying the dancing.

The band has worked together with the group for its entire running.

It is hoped that one of the founders of the dances, John Masterson, who played fiddle and formed and led the band, will be able to attend.

During the dances, a caller leads the dancers by prompting or cueing them through a sequence of steps. John Chapman was the caller for Bidford Folk Dances from 1956 until his death in 2003.

His wife Dee Chapman, aged 80, who has been part of the group almost from when it began, said she will be dancing at the event and is excited that the group has been going so long.

Speaking about folk dancing, she added: “It is a wonderful following to belong to. When you live in the country you can always find someone of the same interests you.”

Caller for the special dance will be Joe Hodgson.

The event, which features dance display by The Wayfarers and folk songs from Vaughan Hully, is open to everyone but recommended for more experienced dancers.

Refreshments will be provided by each guest bringing food to share. The event starts at 7.30 pm.

Tickets are limited and selling fast. For more information contact Dee Chapman on 01789 268536.