FOND memories of the bygone dance hall era were brought to life thanks to a tea dance in Port Glasgow.

Pensioners said they were taken back to the good old days of Gourock's Cragburn Dance Hall as they waltzed the afternoon away at the event in Port Town Hall.

William Anderson from Port Glasgow was attending his first tea dance and had a ball.

The 84-year-old said: "It's terrific, a fabulous idea.

"It reminds me of the Cragburn, which was marvellous.

"This is the first time I've come along and I didn't realise it's so big.

"I was encouraged to come along by my daughter and I'm glad I did.

"I'll definitely be back."

Fellow Portonian Tony Sims, 79, who is well known in the town after working in the swimming baths for 18 years, also enjoyed his first visit to the tea dance.

He said: "It's very nice.

"I'm not a great participant but I like to watch the dancing.

"I used to work in the swimming baths so I've recognised quite a few people I know."

Tony's daughter Janette Hennan, thinks the regular tea dances are great for local senior citizens.

She said: "He really enjoyed going to the dancing."

Connie Sisson, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, says she feels at her happiest when she is on the dance floor in her wheelchair.

The 76-year-old from Port Glasgow, said: "I just love the music.

"I'm usually the first or second person to buy a ticket."

One of the organisers, Margaret Tait, secretary of Inverclyde Elderly Forum and vice chair of community care forum Your Voice, said: "There were 170 people along which is tremendous.

"It's good to bring everyone together."