Norma and Bill arrived at Pontins. Prestatyn, in 1985.
Newly married, friends had bought them the holiday as a wedding present, the happy couple was already involved in a country club in Accrington. The Dale Street Social Club was home to an avid band that shares a passion for the music and culture of the American West. So far they had not come across a dance form to go with their interest but Dick and Geneva Matteis were on hand to change all that.
D&G as they are affectionately known introduced hundreds of British holidaymakers to 'Western and Line dance in the early to mid 1980s. Norma and Bill were unusually enthusiastic newcomers and were hooked straightaway. Initially taught by D&G, they traveled to Pontins. Hemsby, in September 1986 and were presented with certificates by their mentors.
"The early (dances were relatively simple" says Bill it wasn’t until 1992 that it all took off" remembers Norma. After Ache Breaky Heart the couple met other stars of tomorrow including Rob Fowler.
As far as they were concerned, the social side was the most important side of Line dance. "We've never been interested in the money. The Southport weekender has been running since 1993 and we've only ever looked to (cover our costs) the noble intentions seen (even more impressive when you discover that) neither Norma nor Bill have ever charged (dancers for the benefit of their collected wisdom. "(on a few occasions we've asked for petrol money for traveling to teach but that's all." Any other money has gone to charity. It is all about, the friendships made through dance. In 1993, the couple met Liz Clarke and they have been friends ever since. Competitions have played a part. Many candidates for the British Championships have been taught, advised and encouraged by the Lancashire line dance veterans.
We love helping the younger dancers" volunteered Norma. "In fact, we've taught Western dance to many of them at some stage in their careers: Catriona Wiles, Jody Binsteed, Aiden Montgomery and Bernadette Carmichael, My hosts have also had a hand in the Line dance lives of Eddy Ainsworth, Steve and Yvonne Dunn, Rob and Michelle Fowler, Rob and Mary MacNichol and many more