By Sam Hawcroft
Former pupils of Withernsea dance teacher Irene Lawson BEM are being asked to share their memories as part of the project marking her life with a blue plaque.
A questionnaire has been launched by the Withernsea Riff Raff Heritage Project to build up a record of Irene’s 63 years as a dance teacher and her wider contribution to the town.
The project, led by local historian Darrin Stevens and Wendy Graves, wants to hear from people who attended Irene’s Reldene School of Dancing, as well as relatives of former pupils and anyone with photographs or memories to contribute.
People completing the questionnaire are being asked which of Irene’s dance schools they attended, the years they danced with her, their dance speciality and whether they took part in any shows or won titles.
They can also share details of other family members who danced with Irene, their fondest memories and any photographs they may still have.
Irene taught in Withernsea from 1933 until her retirement in 1996, beginning at 63 Arthur Street before moving to 1 Hull Road in 1939, 225 Queen Street in 1956 and finally 83 Bannister Street in 1960.
The questionnaire has been launched as Irene’s commemorative blue plaque goes on public display ahead of its unveiling later this month.
It is now at Withernsea Library until Friday, September 18, before moving to Withernsea Lighthouse from September 19-25.
The plaque will then be unveiled at 83 Bannister Street, the site of Irene’s final dance school, at 11.30am on Saturday, September 26.
The first 100 former dancers to complete the questionnaire will also receive a commemorative blue pin free of charge on the day of the unveiling.
Irene, who lived from 1910 to 1999, received the British Empire Medal and is being commemorated as part of a series celebrating Withernsea’s cultural and social history and the women who helped shape the town.
The Irene Lawson plaque is the second in a planned series of six.
Anyone wishing to contribute memories or find out more can visit withernseariffraff.co.uk or call 07956 386720.