Organisers said Saturday's event was the most successful in its seven-year history, with glorious sunshine and high-quality dancers to entertain visitors.

Jude Brown, who has helped run the day since its launch in 2002, said: "We had 27 community dance groups this year, which is the most so far, and it was incredibly busy.

"It's just lovely to see lots of smiling happy faces. When you dance you can't help but smile and that feeling passes to visitors.

"It brings lots of extra tourists – including people travelling up from London specially – and hopefully that has a positive knock-on effect for shopkeepers."

A wide range of international styles were represented, from African and eastern European troupes to more familiar clog and swing dancing teams.

Performances were held at seven different venues, with the Town Hall hosting have-a-go workshops during the day and a ceilidh in the evening.

Mrs Brown said: "It feels like it's gathered a good momentum over the years and it was great to have the weather in our favour.

"I think acts can see it gives them a good platform and allows them to perform to large crowds."

The Agricultural Business Centre was used for the first time, but Mrs Brown believed it would be difficult for the event to expand in future.
She said: "It has gradually got more and more popular but we can't really expand any more – there isn't the space."

Organisers are already planning next year's event and are looking at ways to find funding.