THE first in a series of monthly tea dance event celebrating traditional 1940s parties has been hailed a success.

Tea and scones were enjoyed by guests and a specialist DJ provided classic tracks for the dance hosted by Age UK at its Darlington base.

Gillian Peel, chief executive at the charity, said: “We had a really brilliant time and a fabulous DJ played some great music from the era.”

Party-goers celebrated the best of traditional dances such as The Charleston, The Palais Glide, sways and many more.

Ms Peel added: “It is an event for people who can do the dances and for the people, like me, who can’t. A lot of the dances are done in lines and so you do not need to have a partner, meaning that everyone can enjoy it.

“Some people dressed up in ‘40s gear but it is not compulsory. A couple of younger people also came along and they had a great time too. The dance is fun for all ages.”

Future tea dances will take place on the last Tuesday of every month, at 3.15pm, in Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West, Darlington.