A plaque dedicated to Irene is on display at Withernsea Library before it will move to its permanent home at the end of September
Irene Lawson was a dance teacher who worked in Withernsea for 63 years(Image: Submitted)
Withernsea locals are invited to come together to share their memories of a local community leader and dance teacher who dedicated 63 years of service to the Withernsea community. Dance teacher Irene Lawson has a plaque dedicated to her which will soon be taking up its permanent residence at her former dance school at 83 Bannister Street.
The plaque will be permanently installed on 26 September. Before that, it will be on display at Withernsea Library and Customer Service Centre from now until Friday 19 September.
It will also be on display at Withernsea Lighthouse from Saturday 19 to Friday 25 September. The plaque was made by local historian Darrin Stevens.
It celebrates Irene’s contribution to generations of dancers in Withernsea. Irene was recognised nationally when she received the British Empire Medal in 1996 for her decades of charitable work, community fundraising, and commitment to the performing arts.
Residents are encouraged to visit the library, share their memories of Irene and her classes, and take a photograph with the plaque before it is sited at its permanent home. The display forms part of the Withernsea Riff Raff heritage project led by Darrin Stevens and Wendy Graves, which explores Withernsea’s cultural and social history.
More project information will also be available at the library. Councillor Nick Coultish, East Riding of Yorkshire Council cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said: “This is a fantastic initiative, and we encourage local residents to attend the library, to share their memories of Irene Lawson and her classes.”
Darrin Stevens, said: “This plaque highlights the remarkable contribution Irene Lawson made to Withernsea. Many residents hold fond memories of her dance classes, her shows, and the opportunities she created.
“We encourage people to come along, share their stories, and bring any photographs they may have. If any one person deserved recognition for their service to Withernsea, it was Irene who also supported countless charities across the county, including St John’s, orphanages, and children’s organisations. This plaque ensures her legacy remains part of Withernsea’s story.”
More information about the Withernsea Riff Raff history project. More information about East Riding Libraries.
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