THE curtain fell yesterday on the career of ballet teacher Margaret Robinson.

After more than 20 years, during which she has helped hundreds of girls to improve their dancing skills, the 62-year-old widow has decided to retire.

But she is hoping a volunteer will step forward to carry on the classes she has run at the community centre in Stanhope, in Weardale.

"It's a very, very sad day for me," said Mrs Robinson.

"It has given me a lot of pleasure and satisfaction to see so many young girls appreciate the art of ballet and go on from there to win certificates for their efforts."

Mrs Robinson, who has only ever charged £1 a lesson for her services, with that money going to community centre funds, was presented with a bouquets of flowers and a photograph of past and present pupils at a surprise farewell party for her yesterday.

She said: "It has been a brilliant part of my life for me. I only hope that someone will come forward to carry on with the classes."

Wendy Hepple, of Stanhope, was one of Mrs Robinson's pupils for five years, with her nine-year-old daughter, Samantha, also taking lessons.

"Margaret and her ballet classes are something that will never be forgotten in the dale," she said.

Elizabeth Walsh, who lives in the Scottish borders, was Mrs Robinson's pianist for eight years, but was unable to attend the farewell party because of ill health.

She said: "Margaret has been a one-off in the teaching of ballet. She is so dedicated - a lovely lady who has been an inspiration to all around her. I loved playing for her."