Nostalgic dance for a good cause

Guests turned out in droves, top to tail in fashions of the era to waltz, foxtrot and quickstep to dance tunes provided by The Legionnaires Dance Band.

The event was a huge success and raised £1200 for the local charity’s work in the community. One attendee said “We go to dances all over, but this was something extra special. The band and all the little details were absolutely amazing!”

The event was organised by volunteers Sue Noye, Estelle Whewell and Shirley Crowther along with the charity’s fundraiser; Lawrie Mallyon who thanked the Horsham community in being integral to the success of the event. The main sponsor for the event was the Dark Star Foundation, the charitable arm of the Partridge Green brewery, who provided funds to cover the majority of costs.

Following Strictly Vintage James Cuthbertson said “We’re so pleased that the Dark Star Foundation can work with groups such as Age UK Horsham District to assist with events. We see a local brewery as being part of the fabric of the community and it’s a real honour when you can play a real part in that community working alongside Lawrie and his team, who do such great work.”

Other supporters included Woodlands Estate agents who helped market the event and a host of over 20 local companies who donated items to the raffle including Carmella’s, Co-op Funeralcare, Pretty Things, Hello Horsham, Kew Gardens and Jen’s Cupcakery to name just a few. Local events company Splendid Occasions offered their services for free including supplying a range of vintage china, cake stands and decorations in order to support Age UK Horsham District. One guest commented “It was so nostalgic and colourful. It was lovely to have a traditional tea served on suchbeautiful crockery. It made for a great atmosphere.”

Splendid Occasion’s owner Dee Child said “It was lovely to be involved with this event and so nice to see our china being enjoyed. All the effort was rewarded by a fabulous turnout of great dancers in vintage outfits. Age UK Horsham District does great work in the local area and this type of event is just our cup of tea!” She was joined by husband James and daughter Hannah as well as one of her staff Imogen Moorhouse who all volunteered to help on the day.

The money raised by the event will go towards funding the free services Age UK Horsham District offer across the district in response to the ageing population and to tackle social isolation. For example, the charity’s Information & Advice service unlocked well over £1million in unclaimed benefits for the older people of Horsham District last year to help them remain independent.

This service alone costs £55,000 to provide last year and relies on fundraising and donations to continue. If you would like to make a donation or help the charity fundraise please contact Lawrie Mallyon on 01403 260 560 or [email protected]

For more information on Age UK Horsham District, visit their website www.ageukhorshamdistrict.org.uk like them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AgeUKHorshamDistrict) or follow them on Twitter @AgeUKHorshamD

Text and pictures contributed by Age UK