THE Town Hall studios were full of gyrating bellies as part of Swindon Dance's Egyptian Promise event.

A day of traditional Egyptian activities was held on Sunday and was hailed as an overwhelming success by organisers.

Activities on offer included dancing and drumming and there was traditional Egyptian food and drink for everyone who attended.

The dancers also went out on the streets to encourage shoppers to have a go.

The group were back by popular demand after the Fat Chance Belly dance of San Francisco troupe performed last year.

Promoter Shirley Ludford said: "The atmosphere was amazing, with mesmeric music, colourful costumes and a clothes bazaar I did get tempted by.

"One lady told me she had danced until her bones ached.

"There was also the opportunity to learn how to use Egyptian castanets, called Zills, and see exotic clothing and jewellery."