A talented group took to the Cornhill in the rain today to promote the joys and benefits of dancing on mental health, showing routines in ballroom, Latin and commercial fusion.

Dancers and teachers from Lait Dance Club in Ipswich are performing at the Cornhill throughout June, in partnership with Ipswich Central, telling stories of how dancing has improved their lives.

Fifteen dancers are involved in the exhibition, which also involved four large photo-cubes under the Lloyds Avenue archway, standing about 2m high.

Ipswich Star: Lait Dance Club in Ipswich will be performing at the Cornhill throughout June.Lait Dance Club in Ipswich will be performing at the Cornhill throughout June. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

These exhibit 16 photos with editorial and hope to encourage others to get moving and benefit from the feeling of dancing, and the impact this can have on mental and physical wellbeing.

Pat Lait, who runs the dance school with her husband Tom, son Bruce and daughter Annette, said dancing is a social way to exercise.

Ipswich Star: Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill in Ipswich.Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill in Ipswich. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

"It's really important for people's mental health," said Mrs Lait, whose family have owned the dance school since 1974.

"We have all ages, from really tiny dancers to older people, with even wedding couples coming to learn their first dance.

"It's a great way to meet new people, especially after the last year."

Ipswich Star: Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill.Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The Lait family has restarted its dance classes, with social distancing measures in place, and said it is great to have people back.

They are "excited" to be showing off their passion to the people of Ipswich over the next month, even hosting 'social dancing' sessions on Tuesday, June 8 and 15 from 1.30pm to 3pm. Anyone can get involved.

Ipswich Star: Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill today. Did you see it?Latin and ballroom dancing at the Cornhill today. Did you see it? (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

The performances will take place on Saturday, June 5 at 12pm, and at 2pm on Saturday, June 19 and Saturday, June 26.

The cubes will be in place until at least June 26.

To discover the joys and benefits of dancing get in touch with Annette on 07854901857 or email laitdanceclub@yahoo.co.uk

Ipswich Star: The rain couldn't stop these dancers in Ipswich!The rain couldn't stop these dancers in Ipswich! (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Ipswich Star: Lait Dance Club wowed fans at the Ipswich Cornhill.Lait Dance Club wowed fans at the Ipswich Cornhill. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)

Ipswich Star: One of the dancer's cubes which are displayed at the Cornhill this month.One of the dancer's cubes which are displayed at the Cornhill this month. (Image: CHARLOTTE BOND)