A POPULAR tea dance is returning to Darlington’s Market Square for what could be the last time.

Pensioners’ group Growing Old Living in Darlington (Gold) has hosted the event for almost ten years and it is back this year on Wednesday .

The future of the tea dance is under threat, after Darlington Borough Council announced that funding for Gold would end next year, but members hope they can find a way to keep the event going.

Terry Taylor, chairman of Gold, said: “The dance is popular with the community as it is a free event, plus people do enjoy dancing.

“Also we see people come from further away just for the tea dance, like Bishop Auckland and Stockton.”

Other members of Gold noted that they like holding the event because it was a way to see the community come together and all ages can take part.

The event will run in the Market Square from 11am to 3pm and will have free refreshments available along with over 20 stalls giving out information about services available.

The Little Big Band will provide live music throughout the day and if there is rain the dance will move to St Cuthbert’s Church Hall.

Gold engages with those over 50 and gives them a voice in the community, and works towards giving people over 50 the chance of a more active future.