DANCING groups entertained shoppers across Oxford city centre as part of a major annual festival.

Dancin’ Oxford, now in its fourth year, runs until April 12.

On Saturday, five dance groups entertained passers-by with their performances in Bonn Square, Cornmarket Street, Broad Street and outside the Said Business School in Park End Street.

Those taking part in the Dance Bites show were Oxford-based hip-hop act Messy Jam, dance students from Abingdon College, Oxford Youth Dance Company, tango act Tangueros Anonymous and tap duo the Tapioca Girls.

Hannah Philp, 16, a member of Oxford Youth Dance, who performed in Bonn Square, said: “Our dance was all improvised so it was a bit scary, but I think it went very well. Young people should definitely get involved in dancing. It’s great fun.”

Elisha Peart, director of Barton-based Messy Jam, said eight out of 140 dancers from the group took part in a performance.

She added: “They loved it. There was a busker playing the saxophone in Cornmarket and they started dancing next to him. A crowd of about 200 people gathered to watch.

“They danced at all the different locations in the city centre and had a great time.

“Dancin’ Oxford is a very good festival.”

Dancin’ Oxford coordinator Claire Thompson said: “The feedback from members of the public has been fantastic.

“Dancin’ Oxford runs until April and has already proved a great success.”

Visiting troupes to Oxford this year include the international Pasión de Buena Vista, Tavaziva Dance Company and Tangomotion.

Another free dance event is Arch, which takes place on March 20 and March 21 at Worcester College.

As the audience walks through the college gardens, they will come across difference performances.

And for the closing event on April 12, dance duo Tangomotion will appear at the Oxford Playhouse.

The festival’s principal sponsors are Arts Council England, Oxford City Council, the Pegasus Theatre and The Playhouse.For further information about the festival, visit the website dancinoxford.co.uk