CHIFFON swirled across the dancefloor as fleet-footed youngsters competed in an amateur dance competition.

Children from Lymington, Wimborne, Broadstone, Corfe Mullen and Sway took part in The Amateur Dancers' Association Holiday Fiesta on September 6, 1980.

It was a colourful and striking spectacle as the sequined dresses sparkled and the glitter sparkled.

The boys dressed in their dark trousers and jackets looked every bit as sophisticated as their partners.

Most of the youngsters had competed on numerous occasions and felt at ease in the close atmosphere of load music, satin shoes, make-up and hastily snatched snacks between classes.

They sat in groups as they rested, discussing each other's dresses and playing cards.

Later in the evening world professional ballroom dancing champions Richard and Janet Gleave gave a demonstration to an appreciative audience.