VISITORS to Smithills Hall stepped into the world of Miss Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy over the weekend.

And dance cards were at the ready as they enjoyed polkas and quadrilles as well as a waltz, which scandalised when it first came to Britain.

Regency Rejigged, a period dance troupe, transformed the historic hall into a set straight out of a period drama to perform dances from yesteryear — illustrating the Victorian’s love of lively music and dance.

They showed contrary to popular opinion, the people of the era certainly weren’t all strait-laced as the new waltz raised eyebrows among Regency society.

The period dancers resplendent in the fashion of the time, gave performances and invited visitors to take part.

Musicians playing acoustic instruments entertained while guests danced the afternoon away.

Visitors enjoyed two sessions, with the dances attracting visitors of all ages — including the very young.

Regency Rejigged is known for recreating dances popular from the 17th to early 19th centuries in Regency style costume and teaching them to modern day dancers.