A GLOBETROTTING Australian couple with a love of culture have stopped off in the UK to enjoy some dancing from around the world.

Steve and Galina Wardrop have swapped Port Macquarie, a small coastal town, 450km north of Sydney, for the Billingham International Folklore Festival as they travel around the world.

The couple have already taken in Thailand and Turkey before landing in the North-East, ahead of a trip to Edinburgh for the Festival.

Sydney-born Steve, 65, is a licensed real estate agent, while 55-year-old Galina, was born in London and before moving out to New South Wales 14 years ago.

“Billingham has been fantastic," said Mr Wardrop.

"I didn’t know what to expect from the Folklore Festival but it has been nice to see so many talented dancers and groups in the one place. You don’t get this kind of event back home in Australia. It was well worth all of the travelling to get here.

“The shows have been absolutely first class with the variety of performances, stunning costumes and the live music making it extra special.”

This year the festival has welcomed performers and dance companies from as far afield as Chile, Martinique, Mexico, North Cyprus, Russia, South Korea and the United Kingdom.

Mrs Wardrop added: “As a spectator interested in dance it was refreshing to see the crowds in attendance who are enjoying the performances – it shows that after 50 years it still has an appeal and attraction to the local people.”

The couple have watched a number of shows since arriving with their particular favourite being the International Concert featuring the skills of the Ensemble ‘Miras’ of Bashkortostan in Russia.

The festival runs until Saturday (August 20) with a host of shows, galas, concerts and workshops still to come.

For further information visit www.billinghamfestival.co.uk