The organisation, which is raising funds for improvements at the town's Recreation Ground, will be playing some of these records, including music from the Victor Silvester Orchestra and Ted Heath Band, at its next tea dance in the Assembly Rooms on Tuesday.

Friends' chairman Sheila Lister said the response to the appeal was superb and they now had a wide selection of music. Tuesday's dance will be from 2.30pm to 4.30pm, with the £2.50 entry fee on the door including tea or coffee and homemade cakes.

She said: "These dances are for all ages and we are getting a lot of retired people coming along because it's a chance for them to get out and mix with other people.

"It's a very friendly atmosphere and we would particularly like a few more men. They don't have to dance – they can sit and listen to the music and socialise."

Committee member Anne Greaves added: "It's not Strictly Come Dancing – but it's great fun nevertheless!"

On Sunday, from 7.30am, in Swaffham Market Place, the Friends have the last of their car boot sales this season, with refreshments, light lunches and homemade cakes and pies available in the Assembly Rooms.

The Friends have raised nearly £3,000 towards improvements at the Recreation Ground in Haspalls Road and now want to hear what local people would like to see there.

"We hope to have a picnic in the park next year with live music," Mrs Lister said.

Membership of the Friends is free and anyone wanting to join, or give suggestions for improving the Rec, should contact Mrs Lister on 01760 720114 or Mrs Greaves on 01760 725191.