New dance guide

The guide, which sets out dances to music, is the brainchild of Jane Downes and Pat King, both longtime supporters of the local dance scene, and for these two the question really is - why not dance?

"It is a passion for both of us," said Pat.

"It is fun - it is just such good fun. That's where it begins and ends."

They are firm believers that dancing will benefit anyone - improving health and coordination, and boosting self-esteem.

The two met nearly 30 years ago when Pat started going to dances with music performed by the Catsfield Steamers, the colourful folk band which has Jane as caller telling dancers what steps to do. Jane also worked at King Offa school where she ran the country dance club which Pat later took over - she still runs two dance clubs at King Offa school which have become well known locally for their high standard.

The book is the result of their time together and took 18 months to compile and write, and includes two CD's of tunes played by the Catsfield Steamers in a guide style helpful to those trying to pick up new routines.

There are approximately six different dance routines for each particular tune with varying degrees of difficulty - the happypack has no less than 70 different dances, and is aimed at fitting in with the school curriculum but also suitable for adult dancers, from complete novices to confident movers.

Why Dance? stems from 30 years experience in dance by both women - Jane still performs with Catsfield Steamers and both she and Pat enjoy the social aspect of traditional country dance.

Jane said: "I think we wanted to share what we learned because dancing has been so beneficial for us, and the children who have enjoyed it. In the beginning of our book we have written some of the comments people have made about it, and I remember one chap came up when we were at Burwash, and he had lost his house which had been repossessed, and said "I completely forgot my wretched week". Another said - "Wicked, when are you coming again?"

Having spent so long pooling their knowledge and notating dances for others to understand, they are now thrilled with the happypack and look forward to its launch at King Offa in March. The event will be attended by MP Michael Foster, who is apparently a dance fan, and Shirley Collins, President of the English Folk Dance and Song Society.

"I am so thrilled with it," said Pat.

"It is everything I hoped it would be. We are happy with it - really satisfied."

Jane added: "I felt very emotional when I saw the completed book with our design on the cover. It made me feel very emotional...It is the culmination of 30 years collaberation, not just 18 months. It brought together everything we have done in one package"

To order copies of the book visit the website www.whydance.org.uk.