AN Irish-themed class for little ones took place this week ahead of St Patrick’s Day on Saturday.

On Tuesday diddi dancers in Malmesbury learnt about the Irish dance style by skipping with a partner and learning a themed dance including pointing, rising, bending, springing and spinning.

Teacher at diddi dance Beth Samsa said: "It was a full and lovely class, full of children smiling, which is great to see. 

"Everyone really enjoyed the Irish theme, some dressing in green!"

Diddi dance classes consist of boys and girls from the age of 18 months to 5 years old.

A new dance style takes places every team in a highly energetic 45-minute class each week. 

Caroline Steele, franchise owner of diddi dance Swindon said: “Our aim is to give the children an opportunity to sample different genres of music and dance and get a feel for the style whilst having fun.

“Children are encouraged to bring in a prop or accessory from home which is anything green or Irish for this half-term, we have had Leprechaun hats and t-shirts embellished with shamrocks!

“Next half-term the children will continue to enjoy the popular dancing games, action songs and props that are included in every class, but we will be looking at a country and western style in our themed section.”

Classes are held every week in Malmesbury at the Riverside Centre.