BELLY dancing took centre stage at Gedling Gala this year.
For the first time in the 36-year history of the event the crowds were invited to either join in or watch a rousing belly dancing performance in the central arena at Willow Park, Gedling, on Saturday.
About 2,000 people paid the £1 entry fee to attend the gala, enjoy sunshine, and peruse a pot-pourri of local craft and cake stalls.
"We do it out of the goodness of our hearts and to keep up community spirit," said Rick Wilson, one of 12 volunteers who gives up his free time to organise the annual event.
"The belly dancing is something we've never done before but I think people really enjoyed it – old and young got involved.
"We try and keep everything local and relevant to Gedling. Local schools were involved in designing the promotion posters, for example."
As well as belly dancing there was music, a marching parade, displays by Notts Fire and Rescue Service and an X Factor-style karaoke tent where people were invited to perform their favourite songs.
"The day has been excellent. We have completely sold out of cake," said Sandy Withnall president of Gedling Women's Institute.
Among the crowds at the event – opened by Gedling Mayor Bob Collis – was 84-year-old Ernie Witney, who organised the very first Gedling Gala back in 1977 to celebrate the Queen's Silver Jubilee.
"It's amazing to see how the event has changed," said Ernie, who now lives in sheltered housing.
"I look around today and I'm proud, proud of what it has become."
Ernie set up the first event with friend Tony Burrows who has since died.
"I remember coming up with the idea quite clearly. We were watching the cricket and talking and made a decision to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee in the village.
"The first gala had 40 floats out in the street. It was fantastic."
