Meet the dedicated couple who taught Ipswich how to dance

Pat and Tom Lait with their trophy from the Carl Alan Awards (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Pat and Tom Lait were given the illustrious prize at the Carl Alan Awards, the so-called "Oscars" of the dancing world, on Friday.

Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman presents Pat and Tom with their prize (Image: Supplied by Lait Dance Club)

The pair started the Lait Dance Club in 1974 - and have taught the likes of ballroom, Latin, rock ‘n’ roll and salsa, for beginners, intermediates and competitors for nearly half a century.

Tom Lait, 90, gives his wife Pat, 76, a twirl (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Pat and Tom Lait are still active dancers (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Mrs Lait, 76, said: "It's been really nice. The awards are the Oscars of the dance world.

Pat and Tom founded the Lait Dance Club (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

"And we have had lots of ballroom dance winners over the years."

Pat and Tom have been teaching all types of dance to people in Ipswich for nearly half a century (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Both her daughter, Annette Lait and son Bruce Lait, who help run the school, have won top dance shows in the UK .

Pat and Tom Lait believes dancing can really lift people's spirits (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

"It's really a family affair," she said. "We've had an amazing career."

She said those who walk into their studio feeling a bit down and lonely will soon "brighten up" as a result of dancing.

"They gain more social and health wellbeing," she added.

Pat and Tom Lait with their trophy from the Carl Alan Awards (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

For more information about Lait Dance Club, click here.

The Lait Dance Club in Ipswich opened in 1974 (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)