A ripping time will be had by all, 1930s-style, when Ledbury's Community Hall becomes the Ivor Novello Suite for one evening only.

The period tea dance has been organised by the Friends of the Ledbury Poetry Festival for Saturday, January 24, featuring the London Ballroom Band.

Tea, home-made cakes and a glass of English sparkling wine are included in the price of a £10 ticket. The band will come fresh from engagements at Claridge's, The Ritz and Covent Garden.

During the interval, Sara-Jane Arbury and John Burns, well-known for hosting poetry cabarets during the festival, will entertain with verse and lyrics from the period.

Topping prizes will be offered for the best 'brightest young thing' costume. Extra points will be awarded for the most feathery boa, classiest Charleston and blackest Black Bottom.

The event is being sponsored by the Elmley Foundation and the Three Choirs Vineyard.

Jo Kingham, the chairman of the Friends of Ledbury Poetry Festival, said that proceeds from the dance would help support an event at this year's festival. The dance runs from 4.30pm to 8pm.

For tickets and further details, ring 0845 4581743.