The Country Dance Group felt a need to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen, one of the country’s greatest novelists. Miss Austen said, “To be fond of dancing is a certain step towards falling in love.” Consequently, our group invited other u3a dance groups from Cheltenham, Cirencester and Bishop’s Cleeve to come together on Saturday, 31st May 2025 at the Royal British Legion Hall, Bourton-on-the-Water.

Over 40 took part in 17th and 18th century dances, ones which Jane Austen may have done herself. All members of Bourton’s own pulled together before, during and after the event to ensure it ran smoothly and that everyone had an enjoyable time. Our group received plaudits from the visitors, with one even suggesting we held this as an annual event!