An Eden-based Scottish country dancing teacher has decided to “call it” a day at the age of 90.
Brian Oliver, of Yanwath, has been teaching the discipline to both beginners and advanced dancers over the past 20 years.
And to celebrate his career, the Penrith Scottish Country Dance Club reconvened for a pre-season dance at Langwathby village hall.
Brian — originally from Liverpool — moved to Berkshire, where he first began teaching dancing. As his career in pioneering work in the nuclear power industry developed, he travelled the length and breath of the country building nuclear power stations 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 present more advanced dancers with more complex material to challenge them.
“Everyone was grateful when supper was announced and there was a chance to rest out-of-practice legs!
“Bridget Davey’s brilliant organisational skills came to the fore once again and her team of volunteers set up tables for the bring and share supper with tartan cloths and exquisite vases of flowers from Bridget’s own garden.
“After supper Brian was presented with a wooden plaque made by Neil Hannah, one of our more recent members, as a memento from all his grateful
pupils.
“Our club chairman, Peter Simpson, then presented him with an award in recognition of outstanding service in the local area from our head office in Edinburgh.
“It praised Brian’s sustained and exceptional commitment to the promotion of Scottish country dancing and for encouraging in others the knowledge and enjoyment of both the dancing and it’s music.
“These are now displayed in pride of place in Brian’s home. A good evening was had by all and provided a fitting tribute to a much loved teacher.”
The club is always looking to recruit new members of all ages, both beginners and experienced dancers. and a warm welcome is guaranteed when classes restart on September 9.
Anyone interested should contact Kay Fenton, club secretary, on kayfen@sky.com or Peter Simpson on 07880 864224.
