An Eden-based Scottish country dance teacher decided to ‘call it’ a day at the age of 90.
Brian Oliver of Yanwath has been teaching the discipline to beginners and advanced dancers for 20 years.
And to celebrate his career, the Penrith Scottish Country Dance Club came together for a pre-season dance at the Langwathby village hall.
Brian – originally from Liverpool – moved to Berkshire, where he started teaching dance. As his pioneering career in the nuclear power industry developed, he traveled the country building nuclear power plants until he retired to Yanwath with his wife, Thora.
A spokeswoman for Penrith Scottish Country Dance Club said: ‘Many of our group owe their love of dancing to Brian’s endless enthusiasm and patience and his ability to introduce more advanced dancers to more complex material. to challenge them.
“Everyone was grateful when dinner was announced and there was a chance to rest their legs out of practice!
“Bridget Davey’s brilliant organizational skills were on display once again and her team of volunteers set tables for dinner to go and share with tartan tablecloths and exquisite vases of flowers from Bridget’s own garden. .
“After supper, Brian received a wooden plaque made by Neil Hannah, one of our newest members, as a reminder of his thanks.
students.
“Our club chairman, Peter Simpson, then presented him with an award in recognition of outstanding service to the region from our headquarters in Edinburgh.
“He praised Brian’s sustained and outstanding commitment to promoting Scottish country dancing and for encouraging others to learn about and enjoy the dance and its music.
“These are now on display in a prominent place in Brian’s home. A great evening was enjoyed by all and provided a fitting tribute to a much loved teacher.
The club is always looking for new members of all ages, whether beginners or confirmed. and a warm welcome is guaranteed when classes resume on September 9.
Anyone interested should contact Club Secretary Kay Fenton on kayfen@sky.com or Peter Simpson on 07880 864224.