Honours for Highland dancers

AWARDS made to the Cairncastle Highland Dancers recently underlined that it is an activity to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Infants from the age of three received certificates from East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson, along with three recent recruits whose ages combined total 149 years.

Tutor Laura Davidson, who has seen the Larne Borough Council and Ulster Scots Agency-sponsored Cairncastle classes grow in numbers, strength and ability since the first fledgeling steps three years ago, said age is no barrier.

“If you are 18 years and over and are reasonably fit, then we’ve got a place for you,” she added.

Two of the adult dancers - Kathryn McAleese and Anna Hill - achieved honours in their first exams and founder member Jodie Mills was likewise assessed in her Silver Highland exams.

Laura said: “It is a pleasure to teach this group as they are availing of both the opportunity to partake in exams which are recognised worldwide and also joining the circle of competitive dancers where Cairncastle’s competition team are able to meet with other groups of dancers and pitch their skills at many province-wide competitions.

“This increases their confidence and also encompasses other diverse communities that may be very different from their own, with Highland dance and Scottish culture being the common ground where life-long friendships are made.”

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