Popular Tea Dance Coincides With 30th Anniversary Festival Event

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Mournes and Slieve Croob District Electoral Areas (DEAs), in partnership with County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN), Alternative Heat and Leitrim Festival, hosted a highly successful Tea Dance on 31 July.

More than 300 senior citizens from across the district attended the event for an afternoon of music, dancing and celebration, with the Tea Dance a popular highlight in the local community calendar which this year was even more special with Leitrim Festival celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Guests enjoyed a lively afternoon of entertainment provided by Gerard Doran of Country Harmony, with people enjoying the opportunity to socialise, meet friends and celebrate together.

In addition to dancing, guests were treated to a delicious afternoon tea, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone in attendance, with the event highlighting the importance of community events in bringing people together, reducing social isolation and promoting positive wellbeing among older residents.

Organisers were delighted with the turnout and the success of the event, demonstrating the strong community spirit that exists across the Mournes and Slieve Croob area.

Leitrim Festival Committee Chairperson, Dan Morgan said, "It was wonderful to see so many people come together to enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing and friendship. The event was particularly significant as we celebrated the festival’s 30th anniversary and I would like to thank everyone who attended and all those who helped make the day such a memorable success."

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said, “The Tea Dance is a very popular event in the community calendar and provides an important opportunity for older residents to socialise, reconnect with friends and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment.

“Thanks to the organisers who delivered a very special event. Everyone had a good time and it is great to see events that encourage older residents to remain active, connected and engaged within their communities.”