DANCE lessons with a twist came to Chester-le-Street this week with a course in belly dancing.

The town's community association saw budding belly dancers enjoy the slinky moves and sensual rhythm of the ancient dance, as taught by local expert Ruth Carey.

She said: "The dance has ancient roots in Egyptian harems, but is now enjoyed in the home, or at family celebrations, where they don't wear the veil costumes usually associated with them.

"It's a very earthy and womanly dance that is more about the hips than the belly. In fact, to call it a belly dance at all is a misnomer."

The association, in Newcastle Bank, holds beginners' sessions on Tuesdays, between 5.45pm and 6.45pm, and between 7.30pm and 9.15pm for those who are improving. Each course costs £18.

For more details, contact Ruth Carey on 0191-378 3836, or visit her website on: www.dur.ac.uk/r.j.carey