‘It is my hope to create a Preston Irish Night or festival-based event’

Siobhan Joyce, event organiser and professional dancer, has spent the past seven years travelling the world before returning to Preston with a brand new dance class.

She said: “When I came back to Preston I realised this is something our city is missing, a great mix between tradition and modern Irish dancing.

“I started the weekly classes in January at St. Walburge’s and they are proving to grow in popularity.

“It is a great form of fitness and fascinating, whether it is solo or ceili dances and I think people are starting to recognise that.

“No previous experience is needed and ladies and gents of all ages are welcome to come down for the Craic!”

Siobhan, from Hatton in Preston, hails from a large Irish family based here.

She said: “We have a big Irish community in Preston and I think the classes could expand on that.”

The event which is held at St. Walburge’s Church Hall on Weston Street usually attracts around 20-25 people.

She added: “It is tricky in the summer with people being busy or on their holidays, but it is my hope to create a Preston Irish night, or even a festival based event to bring dancing to pubs or halls around the area.

“It’s a break from the usual night and teaches people how fun Irish dancing is.

“I will even be heading to Columbia at the end of September to teach Irish dancing over there for a week, so this isn’t limited to the UK.”

The dancing classes are held every Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and cost £4.50 per person. For any information you can email Siobhan on [email protected] or call 07543 008928.