THE ballroom revival has brought two veteran musicians out of unofficial retirement from the dance band scene.

But Geoff Phillips and George Hetherington - used to playing in resident bands at some of the North-East's leading hotels - will be performing in less likely surroundings at a dance on Thursday.

Guitarist Geoff and George, on keyboards, will provide the music at a tea dance in the lounge of the recently-opened Soccarena indoor football complex, in Durham.

The duo hope the popularity of television series Strictly Come Dancing will attract born-again ballroom enthusiasts, who will ensure that there is fancy footwork on the dancefloor as well as on the artificial grass of the arena's covered pitches.

"They had a dance before Christmas and I think they hope to make it a regular thing, bearing in mind how popular Strictly Come Dancing has proved," said Mr Phillips.

He previously performed in house bands at Saturday night dances at the Eden Arms, in Rushyford, County Durham, and Newcastle's Swallow Hotel.

"I stopped playing in 1985 and I never picked up a guitar again until recently, due to the revived interest with the Come Dancing craze.

"I'm sure there's a market out there for people in the 50-plus range who still like to dance or who plan to try it again," he said.

Mr Hetherington is another longstanding dance band member and musical director of Durham Music Theatre Company.

Thursday's tea dance runs from 2pm to 5pm, with a bar and light refreshments available.

Admission is £2 and no booking in necessary.

Published: 01/02/2005