Derek started his dance career at around 15 years old, and has been heavily involved with the promotion and development of Sequence Dancing for more than 65 years. He had a productive and extremely successful amateur career, and with his wife Beryl won all major championships including the British Amateur Sequence Championships held at the prestigious Winter Gardens in Blackpool for 2 consecutive years , 1960 and 1961.

During this time Derek and Beryl were juggling their daytime careers running two hairdressing salons with their dancing activities continuing after work. Eventually dancing became top priority and in 1962 they turned Professional. Qualifying in all core subjects within the International Dance Teachers Association, both achieved Examiner status and were totally committed to examining duties, as well as running a full time Dance Studio in Wolverhampton.

After turning Professional Derek promoted amateur medal tests as well as training numerous students for their Professional Qualifications. He was also instigative in promoting Sequence Competitions, organising Championship Events for almost 40 years.

Despite being co-principal of Tonks & Bates School of Dance Derek found time to work on P & O Cruise ships introducing Classical Sequence to beginners. He also took part in numerous Inventive Dance Competitions in the 70’s and 80’s and won on numerous occasions. His dances are still danced today.

In 1999 Derek received a Carl Alan Award , the Oscar of the Ballroom Dancing World for the Sequence Award, and was honoured to receive another in 2018, this time for Lifetime Achievement.

He was proud to receive a Classique de Danse Award in the 80’s. Sadly, he passed away Thursday 18th August ,looking forward to receiving yet another on Saturday 20th August, this time for a Lifetime Achievement.

Derek served on the Midland Area Committee of International Dance Teachers Association for almost all of his Professional career and has been Chairman on many occasions. To date he was the current Chairman.

He was also heavily involved in the Nationwide Medallist Competitions and was Chairman at the time of his passing. He was also a member of the IDTA Classical Sequence Faculty, also being current Chairman.

Derek also served as the IDTA delegate for the Sequence Advisory Committee on the British Dance Council.

In the early years of his Professional career he hosted the BBC Radio programme dedicated to Sequence Dancing , and also holds the honour of being entered into the World’s Dancing Hall of Fame.

In conclusion, Derek was regarded worldwide as a true Professional and a gentleman and his input and knowledge of his passion, Classical Sequence will be sorely missed.