LIVERPOOL - All gloom was left outside as pensioners bustled into a room in Liverpool’s centuries-old town hall for a tea dance, a lively antidote to getting older in Britain.

“Come to tea dances and avoid the NHS (National Health Service)!” joked 71-year-old Davina Woods referring to the country’s creaking health system and the awareness the retirees have that, as they age, they will likely come into increasing contact with the service.

Ms Woods, a former headteacher, said she loves the sessions for the chance to get dressed up and don high heels.

It really “lifts your spirits”, she said.

For some, the dancing provides a welcome chance to put aside the political tensions facing the country as it grapples with a host of issues, including weak economic growth and

discontent over immigration

“We leave politics outside,” said engineer David Easton, 65.

“It brings people together. It brings us joy.”

Tea dance, which evolved from the tradition of afternoon tea in the late 19th century, is enjoying a revival, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic.

This mirrors a trend seen with other traditional dances such as ballroom, with the BBC’s hugely popular hit TV show Strictly Come Dancing often cited as a key factor.

One recent chilly Monday afternoon in the north-west city of Liverpool, 115 dancers paid £12 (S$20.60) to waltz, tango and cha-cha-cha under the chandeliers of the stunning 18th century town hall.

Refreshments included tea and cakes.

“It is very vibrant. It’s growing,” said organiser Jackie Williams, 53, who also started the ...