Blanche Ingle-Bateman’s 53rd Anniversary Ball
by Iris Findlay

On November 10, 2007, Blanche Ingle-Bateman held the 53rd Anniversary Ball at the Centre, Farnham Road, Slough, in memory of her late husband Ken Bateman. The Worshipful Mayor Councillor Leo Walters and his wife the Mayoress of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead attended this impressive event. Blanche greeted all her guests as they arrived and showed them to their seats. Every seat in the hall was taken and soon the dance floor was packed with dancers of all ages including the Mayor and his wife enjoying the lovely music played by Colin Mansbridge assisted by his wife Janet. A ballroom and Latin demonstration was booked for the evening and when the couples arrived, they were introduced to everyone seated at the tables. A buzz of excitement went up when the first couple entered the hall, Jonathan Wilkins and Hazel Newberry MBE, a newly-formed ballroom partnership performing their first demonstration and now dancing competitively for England – very exciting news indeed. The Latin demonstrators, Alex and Lisa Bellinger, were then introduced and general dancing continued until it was time for the demonstrations.

Blanche introduced Jonathan and Hazel and explained to everyone that Jonathan began learning to dance with her and Ken when he was six years old. Together, Jon and Hazel started their show with a beautiful slow foxtrot, Hazel looking stunning in a black and gold trouser suit. Paso doble followed from Alex and Lisa, with Alex performing excellent cape work, and Lisa dancing segue – a very clever and intricate routine. Viennese waltz was next with Jonathan and Hazel, followed by a super samba from Alex and Lisa. Tango, followed by cha cha cha; quickstep followed by rumba; and finally a waltz from Jon and Hazel and “All That Jazz” from Alex and Lisa. What fantastic performances from two very talented couples. Presentations of flowers were made to Hazel and Lisa, then both couples spoke very highly of Blanche and thanked her for inviting them, and the audience for their appreciation. General dancing continued for the rest of the evening, which everyone enjoyed immensely. We all look forward to the 54th event.

Photograph by Morrison Findlay.