By Isle of Wight Observer
Forty years of Niton Scottish Country Dance Club were recently celebrated in style, with dancing and a high tea at the Brunswick Hotel, in Shanklin.
Accompanied by the Craigellachie Scottish Country Dance Band, dancers filled the hotel with the sounds of Scotland, creating a lively spectacle as they whirled in time with the music to mark the club’s 40th anniversary.
Club secretary, Pam Babington, one of two original members, paid tribute to Joan Stoneman, who founded the club in 1986 with just six people at Niton Village Hall.
The club now has 42 members, providing a fitting legacy to Joan.
Pam also thanked Ian and Judith Muir, who paused their international band engagements to play for the special occasion.
Their renowned and innovative playing lifted the dancers, with many commenting that their feet felt lighter as they took to the floor.
Club dance leader, Janette Baxter, provided an uplifting programme of dances, ending with the traditional Auld Lang Syne.
The celebrations closed with members feeling happy and confident that Niton Scottish Country Dance Club has many more successful years ahead.
Tilly Walder