SALTAIRE Ballet Swans have told how adult ballet classes via Zoom have helped people fight back against the loneliness of lockdown restrictions.

The group has held almost 50 video classes since March, hosting 80 'Zoom Swans' dancing and laughing together each week. From today (September 14), classes are returning to the beautiful Victoria Hall in Saltaire with a range of class types and reduced class sizes.

Swans come from a range of areas including York, Skipton, Bradford, Ilkley and Leeds - some even further afield in Newcastle and Glasgow.

A spokesperson for Saltaire Ballet Swans said the group had been "vital" for those shielding from Covid-19.

The sessions are delivered by teacher and TV Choreographer Sammy Murray Brown, promoting core strength, flexibility and balance with a focus on fun and wellbeing.

The group spokesperson said: "They’ve also provided us with the opportunity to meet each other’s dogs, cats, partners, grandchildren and window cleaners! Something we don’t usually get in class at Victoria Hall!

"But the real benefit is that Saltaire Ballet Swans have kept us dancing and laughing together through difficult times. And for those Swans unable to return to live classes, we hope to continue Zooming so they can continue releasing their inner Swan – whether in lockdown or not."

If you would like to join the swans, visit www.saltaireballetswans.com