RADIO personality Frank Wappat is turning back the musical clock to put a dales town on the social map.

He will be hosting tea dances at St John's Chapel Town Hall, in Weardale, County Durham.

The veteran BBC local radio disc jockey, who lives in Weardale, will provide the music for dancers to trip the light fantastic to the likes of the quick step, foxtrot and modern waltz.

He said: "I think it's a great idea and I am only too pleased to be helping out."

Tea dances were in their heyday in the 1940s and 1950s, with some of the most popular being held at the Oxford Galleries and Old Assembly Rooms, Newcastle.

It is the first time they have been held at St John's Chapel, however.

Town hall treasurer Ted Rowell said: "We are always exploring ways of raising funds to expand our leisure programme."

The tea dances start next Thursday, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Admission is £2.