It's hip to be square!

Dancers at a club near Wolverhampton have celebrated more than 30 years of do-sa-do fun. Lone Star Wombourne has more than 60 members and teaches people American square dancing.

The milestone was marked with a big party at Coven Memorial Hall attended by more than 100 people, including dancers from as far afield as Stoke, Cheltenham and Yorkshire. Founder, chairman and caller Brian Summerfield said the dance was something that was enjoyed all over the world and united people despite the language barrier.

The 66-year-old retired carpenter said: "There are square dance clubs in Russia, Japan and India. They come to visit us and they might not speak a word of English, but the moves are the same so they can join in.

"It's good exercise and fits to lots of different types of music, from jazz to rock 'n' roll.

"There are hundreds of square dance clubs all over Europe and many people have travelled a long way tonight to help us celebrate our anniversary."

Mr Summerfield, of Hazel Road, Bradmore, has been all over the world thanks to square dancing.

He has been invited to call the dances in America, Holland, Germany and Switzerland because hearing the calls in different accents and languages presents a challenge to dancers.

His wife Irene, aged 64, still dances with him and sons Mark, 45, Brian, 43, Andrew, 41 and Darren, 30, are all members of the club.

Members range in ages from 10 to 77.

And membership of the club has even led to romance.

Postman Dave Nicholls, who used to live in Wombourne but now lives in Hall Green, Birmingham, met his wife Sue, a teaching assistant, through the club 13 years ago. Their relationship blossomed after joining their fellow members for a walking holiday.

Dave, aged 47, said: "This club has got a lot to answer for."

The couple still make the journey every week for practice at Wombourne Village Hall.

Saturday's party had to move to the larger venue in Coven simply because of the sheer numbers of people who wanted to join the celebration.

Square dancing involves four couples arranged in a square and following a formation. It first started as folk dancing in England in the 17th century and spread throughout Europe until it took off massively in America.

For details call 01902 339139.