A GROUP of 'Silver Swans' performed at The Royal Academy Of Dance ( RAD) in London last weekend for International Day of Older Persons.

The ladies, who are members of a ballet class at Kirkham Henry Performing Arts Centre in Malton were one of only 12 groups chosen to take part in person from the whole of the UK.

Silver swans is a licensed RAD accreditation for over 55s to learn Ballet at a slower pace for beginners or older people with ballet experience.

Dance teacher and director of Kirkham Henry, Angela Kirkham said the ladies had been very excited about the visit.

She said: "Our Silver Swans enjoyed a wonderful weekend in London, visiting the longest bar in Europe at St. Pancras Station on arrival.

"We were also given a backstage tour of The Royal Opera House by Samantha Raine, my youngest daughter who is Senior Ballet mistress of The Royal Ballet Company before we all watch the wonderful Royal Ballet production of Don Quixote staring Marianela Nunez and Vadim Muntagirov."

"Sunday brought us to the main reason on travelling to London as we made our way this time to the RAD to perform for International Day of Older Persons - Silver Sunday.

Angela added: "There was a special message to those taking part from our Queen Camila as she couldn’t make it but is a huge Silver Swan fan and continues to take class.

"This was followed by a speech from Angela Rippon Silver Swans ambassador, even though she’d been rehearsing intensely for Strictly. "

"The ladies had a fabulous time with many saying the memory will stay with them for a long time."

Lindsey one of our Silver Swans, said: "Biggest heartfelt thank you to Angela and Michaela. It wouldn’t have happened without you

"We were given a very special opportunity- the first time such an event had been organised- and we took it. That’s amazing. So I think we can be both grateful and pleased with our achievement.

It was wonderful to visit the Royal Academy, see and use their facilities. And how marvellous to have a live pianist.

Our group felt like a proper community within a larger family of Silver Swans. So many Swans from so many places and all offering support and encouragement.

"It was such a unique day that none of us there will ever forget.

"In addition there was the lovely hotel, fabulous ballet and tour backstage. We were so lucky to have all this organised for us. Thank you once again."