East Belfast Community Development Agency

EBCDA's Health Development and Connections Programme organised a 'Tea Dance' in Orangefield Presbyterian Church Hall on Friday 26 March 2010.

Taking part were members of local Community and Day Centre's; Age Concern, Mullan Mews, Henderson's Court, Sydenham Court, Greenville Court, Connswater Community Centre, Dee Street Community Centre, Knocknagoney Community Centre and Belmont Belles.   Leading the line dancing was Sally Maxwell and members of Ballyoran Old Time Dance Group. 

More than 60 people put on their dancing shoes for an afternoon of cream tea and dance.  A lively afternoon was had by all, with everyone entering into the spirit of the dance with plenty of movement and exercise.  With the help of a professional dance instructor Drew and his lively music, he made sure couples waltzed across the dance floor during the three hour event.

Evaluations branded the session a huge success.  There was overwhelming support for more regular sessions to help improve the physical and mental wellbeing of older people, providing a social outlet for people to meet together from different communities.