On 9 July 1943, the Kent & Sussex Courier carried a report from “An Onlooker” about Blackham Country Dancing Club The Sailors’ Library, Wings for Victory, the Merchant Navy Prisoners of War Funds, Mrs

Churchill’s Y.W.C.A. Fund and the Cecil Sharpe House Reconstruction Fund are only a few of the many war efforts which have benefited financially from the activities of the members of the Blackham Country Dancing Club. Of Even greater importance is the fellowship and happiness which the members theselves derive from their weekly gatherings, which take place on the lawns of some of the most charming houses in Sussex and Kent.

Every difficulty of transport has been overcome through the medium of bicycles and pony carts and it is a grand sight to see this procession its way. The fun and exhilaration to be had on these journeyings is beyond imagination. If by this short description other villages and hamlets are induced to start similar organisations there is no doubt that untold joys of mind and body will be the reward of such efforts. A special word of thanks should be given to Mrs Benham whose lovely dancing and training of the members are such an inspiration.

Country dancing - good for war effort and the dancers