A EVENT which has become an institution for dance lovers is making its last hurrah in Saltaire this weekend.

Day of Dance, a major fundraiser for Yorkshire Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND), returns on Saturday for the 46th and last time.

Thousands of people have flocked to the town over the years to have a go at one of the diverse dance workshops on offer at the event.

From favourites like the Charleston and Strictly Come Dancing, to Lancashire Clog, Breton, Arbeau, Circle Dance, 5 Rhythms, Bollywood, and Street Dance, to new dances such as Body Groove or Gipsy Skirt, there is always something to tickle the dancing feet of everyone.

Even those who are don’t regard themselves much of a dancer, there are winging workshops, ukulele, drumming or yoga.

Event organiser Catherine Bell said: “Yorkshire CND has been involved with this event as a major fundraiser since its inception, but since the loss of our dancer volunteer who initiated it, and increasing costs, it’s just not viable in its current form going into the future.

“However, we know how well-loved this event is, and we also really appreciate all the tutors who have given their time for free to help us raise funds over the years. So we felt we had to give the Day of Dance the send-off it deserves, and are going all out for a fantastic finale this Spring. In the background we’ll be searching for other volunteers, or a way of continuing the spirit of the event in some way, but in the meantime, we mean to make this day really special.”

Many of the tutors, who give their time for free, are local dance teachers and have been involved with the Day of Dance for many years. One such tutor, Angela Buckle, has taught classes including Swing Jive and Charleston at all 46 events.

She said: “I love teaching at the Day of Dance because there’s a really great atmosphere, with hundreds of people all trying out new things, having a go, and having loads of fun in the process”.

Another tutor, Yannick Minvielle-Debat, re-discovered his native Breton dancing as a participant at the Day of Dance some years ago, and now returns as a tutor to share his love of the dance-style. “I have a great affection for the event, and there’s always a good handful of people every year who discover a new hobby when they enjoy one of the classes,” he said.

You don’t have to bring a partner to any of the workshops, and only a small minority of the classes need any special equipment.

Most of the workshops are suitable for older (accompanied) children. This year, in addition to the ceilidh, there is a new class – Parent & Child ballroom – for children

aged five and older.

There will be food, teas and cakes in the Victoria Hall.

A day ticket for the event is £19 to £22.

The event finishes off with an early evening Ceilidh, which is popular with families, but fun for everyone.

A full programme is available online and tickets can also be bought online (with no booking fees) at www.yorkshirecnd.org.uk/dayofdance, or alternatively, pick up a leaflet from various venues including tourist offices and Victoria Hall, or contact Yorkshire CND 01274 730395. Tickets can be bought on the day, but availability is limited for some of the smaller classes.