JAM scones along with music and laughter are the ingredients for a day of fun when Darlington holds its annual tea dance next month.

The event, a highlight on the town's social calendar, promises to transform the market square as the young at heart take to the dance floor and relive their youth.

Organised by GOLD – Growing Older Living in Darlington - the tea dance attracts hundreds of people to Darlington every year.

This year will see an extra special effort with the Queen’s 90th birthday as the theme of the day.

Colourful bunting will decorate the square and the popular Little Big Band will knock out tunes from yesteryear bringing back memories of times gone by.

A spokesperson for GOLD said: “It truly is a wonderful event and we look forward to it so much every year.

“It is a lot of work and our volunteers put so much effort in but it is worth it when you see so many people coming together and enjoying themselves.”

Those joining in can expect a free cuppa and a jam scone as the traditional refreshments.

There will also be a host of stalls to browse offering information about services in the area and a huge hamper draw.

The GOLD spokesperson said: “We would not be able to do what we do without sponsorship and we have a lot of individuals and businesses who have either donated prizes or money or food and refreshments for the day.

“Some of these people give us things every year and their loyalty and kindness is appreciated so much.”

It is not just older residents who flock to the event which, over the years, has bridged the generation gap with younger people joining in.

According to organisers, grandparents bring grandchildren and teach them dance steps and people of all ages can be seen enjoying classic dances such as the waltz and the two-step.

The spokesperson added: “It really is an event for everyone. We hope to see both young and old from all over the region come to our market square and dance the day away.”

The tea dance is on Thursday, August 11, from 11am until 3pm.