Step back in time as popular 1940s hanger dance returns
Guests enjoying a previous Hangar Dance at Ellough. Picture: Mick Howes - Credit: Archant
A 1940’s Hangar Dance will be returning to Beccles at the end of June after a break last year.
The event will be held in one of two original hangars at Ellough Airfield, in aid of the Louise Hamilton Centre.
The dances have been running since 2001 and in the past have raised over £100,000 for two local hospices.
One of the events organisers, and founder, Ken Woodgate from Lowestoft said: “It was very small to start with, just 300 people on the one night, but it grew from that.
“I never thought it would take off like this”
Since 2004, the dances have run over two nights, this year on June 24 and 25, to account for the huge demand.
“We get people from all over the country, the 1940’s revival is massive,” said Mr Woodgate.
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“And we are lucky to have this fantastic original venue in which to host our event”
This year, the dances will be raising funds for the Louise Hamilton Centre, situated in the grounds of the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston.
The charity’s appeal coordinator Maxine Taylor said: “Its a step back in time from the moment you arrive. Guests are met by Second World War re-enactors, period military vehicles - its brilliant, the atmosphere is amazing, a step back in time.”
People are encouraged to dress in 1940s wartime dress for the event and the Super Swing Big Band will play music from the era.
There will also be other attractions including a well-stocked bar and barbecued food.
Tickets for the dance, priced at £13 for Friday and £15 for Saturday, go on sale on May 3, and can be bought by filling out an online form at www.palliative-care-east.org.uk.
Are you raising money for charity? Email polly.grice@archant.co.uk.
