I came into Egyptian (belly) dancing approximately 11 years ago after being inspired by two beautiful dancers I had seen whilst on holiday in Turkey. Their dancing was hypnotic; filled with fiery, fluid body movement overlaid with exquisite shimmies. I have been dancing for 12 years and in the last para, teaching privately for 5 years.

I initially learnt Egyptian belly dancing through Adult Education with Tessa Kirkpatrick. This fine teacher introduced me into a world of figure of eights, hip shimmies, shoulder shimmies, camels, tummy rolls, hip pushes and hip drops plus many other movements which I delighted in. Through her wonderful teaching and support, I also taught Egyptian belly dancing for Adult Education for four years.

'I have also been taught by Lorraine Theobald in Norwich, who has been an enormous source of inspiration and have attended many workshops learning from international teachers around the UK, including Keti Sharif and Liza Laziza in Egypt.

Egyptian belly dancing helps to improve all over muscle tone, particularly in the abdomen and torso region. It is an excellent form of exercise for the young and old and is suited to all shapes and sizes. Essentially, the dance is performed in an atmosphere of warmth and respect for each other and many ladies feel they gain confidence through this dance form as well as good friends along the way.

'I have been teaching privately for approximately four years now and never tire of sharing time with ladies who enjoy this vibrant dance form of undulating torsos, complex shimmies and walks, often put together with the flowing fabric of a veil or a twirling cane and, of course, a sparkly garment!

Please come and step into the world of Egyptian belly dance where I am sure you will find your sparkle too!