When one of Scotland's renowned ceilidh bands was asked down to play in Frome in 2010, they might have been forgiven for being a little nervous about the event. Would people know what a ceilidh was or even know how to pronounce it? (It's kay-lee, by the way). However, they were amazed at the enthusiasm of the Frome folk who took to the floor of the Cheese and Grain with gusto. The evening was a great success.

Since that first night, the Bigger Little Biggar Band have played many times, helping Frome's Missing Links raise much-needed funds over the years to help them improve local walking and cycling paths.

The organiser, Marjory Hatvany, explains the Scottish connection and how Frome has become keen on doing it 'ceilidh style'.

She said: "I have lived down here in Frome for 20 years, and you can get Irn Bru and Tunnocks tea cakes easily enough. But a wild and exhilarating authentic Scottish ceilidh is something I really missed. Ceilidhs are very popular with all ages over the border, and Scottish weddings often include ceilidh dancing.

My friend Linda plays bass in a band from Biggar near where I grew up in the south of Scotland. Known as The Little Biggar Band, they become The Bigger Little Biggar Band when a few more musicians are added. When thinking of a fundraiser, I asked the band down to see how Frome would take to it. And Frome liked it so much that 12 years on, we are still running them, the next to be on Friday, 27th January - shortly after Burns Night.

"Although there will be curry by Lungi Baba and Azeema on offer rather than haggis! Although maybe we should also offer a haggis supper next year, what do you think – is Frome ready for that?"

There are many reasons to love ceilidhs; they are very social, and the physical movement and the wonderful music create an endorphin rush! Sarah Northcott, the fiddler, says, "Tom and I 'call' the dances so everyone can enjoy themselves and just have fun… The floor is packed, and the atmosphere is fantastic".

Ceilidh tickets are £15 and curry supper tickets are £7.50 (plus the standard C&G booking charge). This fundraiser for Frome's Missing Links is at the Cheese and Grain on Friday, 27th January, with doors open at 7pm. To book click HERE

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