Oyster Girls • Rumworth Morris Bare Bones Border • Invicta Morris Mepal

www.morrisfed.org.uk

fedThe quarterly newsletterextr of The Morris Federationa Winter/Spring 2017

Inside this issue... Percy Manning the centenary of the death of historian, folklorist, and archaeologist NYFTE An introduction to the National Youth Folklore Troupe of England Kingston Morris performing a traditional morris display on the Polish Baltic Coast Birthday celebrations Oyster Girls • Rumworth Morris Bare Bones Border • Invicta Morris Mepal Molly • Oyster Morris www.morrisfed.org.uk www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017 fedextra inside Winter/Spring 2017 this issue Winter/Spring 2017

Mepal Molly Percy Manning 18 Centenary 06

Rumworth Bare NYFTE Kingston Morris 10 Bones 12 14 Morris 22 28 Welcome to the Winter/ Cardiff Ladies Morris The National Youth Folklore Oyster Morris: continuing Goathland Community Hub: Cover Stars Spring issue: a message invite teams to keep the Troupe of England: could their year of 40th anniversary the new cultural exhibition from the editor Llareggub Tradition alive they appear at your event? celebrations centre for sword dancing Bare Bones Border Morris at 04 09 14 20 Welcoming25 you theirto 30th the day of dance City in of Culture Contact your committee: An introduction to the Boss Morris: an introduction Morris Dance Database: Debbie's Dance: a fitting Loughborough, September 2016 details of how to get in Rumworth Morris of Bolton to the team and their unique a resource for searching tribute to a sadly missed Photograph: Kev Ryan 04touch 10as they turn 40 years young 15morris style 21traditional dance repertoires 25 musician, H Debbie E Howard. Do you have a great action Y ’ picture of your team that President's prologue: email The Morris Ring dance in/ Invicta: The first ladies team Kingston Morris in Poland: Diary – B Dates: a collection of could feature on the cover broadcasts, website revamp, out: Adam Garland passes the in Kent mark their 40th year providing a very English G,up-coming G dance G events of FedExtra? and risk assessments baton to Eddie Worrall by dancing with friends display on the Baltic Coast from around the UK 05 11 16 22 FG,25 M M Send a high quality image suitable R M – to print in A4 portrait format, The Centenary of Percy Bare Bones Border Morris Dancing England: a review of Dartmoor Border Morris: Go Paul White's Diary: Going nuts M F some background info about Manning: the man who celebrate their 30th years out the rebooted celebration of West! with photos of local in May, and what's morris got

your team, details of where and 06collected Oxfordshire 12and about in Loughborough 17traditional dance 23shenanigans 27to do with wassail? when the image was taken, and the photographer'sAmong namethe highlights to: of the day will be your The Isle of Wight's Oyster "I didn't know women were Mepal Molly: one of the first Mayflower Morris: the Hants/ S, S Get set for our 23. Day of Dance [email protected] to dance on the unique and award- Girls celebrate their 35th allowed to do that!": Molly revival teams looks Surrey North-West side, share and AGM in Hull - the 2017 winning Scale Lane Bridge – the only bridge in th All the dance spots anniversary our 40 photo exhibition back over the last 40 years details of last year's events city of culture! www.morrisfed.org.ukthe UK where you can stay on it as it swings. 08 12 18 24 will28 be within walking 2 3 distance of the historic You’ll also visit the Museums Quarter in our Guildhall, your base for historic Old Town; Holy Trinity Church – Britain’s the day as well as our newest minster; the ruins of Beverley Gate, a evening ceilidh venue. key site in the English Civil War; plus our lovely In preparation for Hull’s marina and up-and-coming Fruit Market area. year in the spotlight, extensive works have been under way during the past year to transform Please email as soon as possible to indicate your interest in dancing at this the city. By late September most areas should be event to bookings@hulldayofdance. completed, with lots of lovely new squares and com. You’ll ﬁ nd our draft programme COMING piazzas just waiting to be danced on. and booking form in this TO STAY? newsletter, as well as on the Hotel occupancy Morris Federation website in the city is at an and on our website, www. all-time high, owing hulldayofdance.com. The to the interest in City form should be returned by of Culture events, so June 15, 2017, so please if you are planning to don’t delay! book accommodation, you MUST do it at your earliest opportunity to www.hulldayofdance.com l Find us on and avoid disappointment. fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017 Sam Ross, Newsletter Editor • [email protected] practices and dance outs. We are • 64 The Batch, Farmborough, looking into revising our warm Somerset, BA2 0AJ up leaflet to bring it in line with • 07849 055 339 current advice, so if your team has any best practice they would like to share, please get in touch.

We have had some feedback on our 'Guidelines to teams using face paint as a disguise' suggesting that we are either banning or instructing people not to use face paint. This is not the case, as the title infers, these are purely guidelines. President's As a federation, we cannot and from the do not instruct our members, contact your we advise them to consider prologue their actions, as part of their risk editor committee assessment, to avoid unwanted welcome to the Winter/Spring issue of Morris FedExtra Melanie Barber, President Hello! As this is our first from our broadcast system, so results to those from the 2014 confrontations or possible Newsletter of 2017 - Happy New if you haven't been receiving Morris Census to see if trends litigation. must apologise to one reader therefore unsuitable for printing • [email protected] Year! I hope you all had a good broadcasts it might be worth are continuing or changing. The who commented to a member at the kind of dimensions I • 72 Freedom Road, Walkley, festive season. providing us with an alternative results of the 2014 census can Finally, a quick reminder that Sheffield, S6 2XD of the committee that the new would prefer. In those cases, email address. As we now use be found at: The Morris Federation photo • 07812 656 036 format contains 'too much blocks of colour come to the Sadly my year started by our Facebook page for general www.morriscensus.uk exhibition, 'I didn't know women colour'. I appreciate the layout rescue, but I do tend to use Fee Lock, Secretary attending the funeral of Peter messages, we have decided to were allowed to do that!' is still and style of any publication the featured team's colours, so Halfpenny, who was Squire of limit email broadcasts to Morris Back in November I attended available on loan, as are our pop- may not always be to everyone's you will notice that as most of • [email protected] The Morris Ring from 2010- Federation business, hence the Association of Festival up banners. If you would like to I • 28 Fairstone Close, Hastings, taste, but as I am still getting the teams in this issue dress in 2012. This was a significant having the correct contact is Organisers on behalf of The borrow either of these for an East Sussex, TN35 5EZ used to the format myself it is red, green and/or yellow, they period for the Ring as it was even more important. Morris Federation. One of the event then please get in touch. • 01424 436 052 still a work in progress, so any are the colours predominately during Peter's Squireship that sessions I attended was about constructive criticism is always appearing on these pages. Jenny Everett, Treasurer women musicians were finally I'm pleased to say that our new risk assessment, which we Happy Dancing! appreciated. accepted as members. We website is now up and running, should all have in place and Thank you to everyone for • [email protected] have since seen an increase in with many thanks to Sam for be reviewing every time we With that in mind, it is probably hanging on for this long-awaited • Willow Cottage, 20 High Street, Sutton- the number of Ring weekends developing it and Kevin for dance out. That might sound Melanie on-Trent, Newark, Notts, NG23 6QA worth mentioning that I do winter/spring issue of FedExtra. including women's and mixed transferring it and sorting out a tad over the top, but as slips • 01636 821 672 enjoy featuring photographs You will be pleased to hear that teams, which I hope is a trend some initial teething problems. and trips account for 50% of over blocks of colour to break following a plea for copy-editing Mike Everett, Archive Officer that will continue. As part of the re-development accidents at festivals, I think it is up what would otherwise be help, several kind souls have we have replaced the members' something we should be taking guidelines for endless columns of text, so I jumped to the challenge and • [email protected] Thank you for bearing with us list with a map, so please take a more seriously. Having broken • Willow Cottage, 20 High Street, Sutton- submission of will use those where supplied. so the summer's issue should while we experienced a couple look when you can, check that my wrist a few years ago on a on-Trent, Newark, Notts, NG23 6QA articles Unfortunately, even in this age be back on track. Take a look • 01636 821 672 of technical hitches towards your team details are correct and dance out I'm certainly far more of high-res digital photography at the deadline date below and the end of last year. We are let us know if any are missing, conscious about dance surfaces, Please send articles as doc, and camera phones, many of the guidelines for articles on the Jerry West, Notation Officer working to make our systems though please note that we especially when it's been docx, txt or odt formats. the images that I receive are still opposite page and send better, though I would remind have linked to either your team raining! We've included a risk • [email protected] Articles over 750 words will of a rather low quality, and are me your team's news! you that The Morris Federation website or Facebook page rather assessment template on the new • 23 Avondale Road, Fleet, be trimmed. Sam Hampshire, GU51 3BH committee are all volunteers, than including individual details website, and I would encourage Please accompany all articles • 01252 628 190 or 07754 435 170 each with very busy lives, so as many of these are personal you to take a look and complete deadline for next issue: 16 June please bear with us when you addresses. one for your team. If you have with at least three high quality next issue publication date: 31 July send in side updates, especially any queries don't forget that images. Any images embedded Co-opted committee over the festive season when Thank you to everyone who our Health & Safety advisor, in text should also be sent as Kevin Taylor - Web Editor membership renewals are due. completed the 2017 Morris Sally Wearing, is available to separate attachments. If you do have any ongoing Census, developed by Jack help (contact details are on the advertising rates • [email protected] Photographs and illustrations For the current rates and advert You can also download a copy issues, please contact me at: Worth, which will provide opposite page). should be jpg, eps, tiff or pdf, sizes, please contact the editor: from the FedExtra pages on our [email protected] and I will invaluable information about though other file types may be [email protected] website: www.morrisfed.org.uk Advisors try my very best to resolve them. traditional dancing and The other thing that many accepted. Sally Wearing - Health & Safety Advisor Also, can I remind you that some performance. It will also be teams forget to do is to warm Make sure you have appropriate • [email protected] • 0118 946 3125 email addresses bounce back interesting to compare the up before dancing – both at useful info permission to publish all words Contact all Morris Fed members: Update your team's contact details: John Bacon - Licencing Bill Advisor and pictures. Credit will be given to photographers, and [email protected] [email protected] • [email protected] @morrisfed @MorrisFed.org.uk keep it social captions printed, where provided.

04 05 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017 The Centenary Poet's corner The Risk! In olden times the morris men of Percy (and women) Just turned up in some place They’d strut their stuff to cheer the crowds Manning Then parted with good grace. But in these litigation days Where shysters call the shout the man who A risk assessment must be done Before we can dance out. collected Oxfordshire We must watch out for breaking sticks BOB DUNLOP Flying through the crowds his year marks the centenary of Kirtlington Morris have contributed to Or waving hankies raising dust the death of historian, folklorist, the Pitt Rivers Museum display which In choking, swirling clouds. and archaeologist Percy Manning, features the morris costume bought by 1870-1917. Manning’s agent Thomas Carter and sold Will there be any traffic there? T to the museum in 1895. The Pitt Rivers Will we block the path or road? It would be hard to overstate Manning’s display will incorporate photos, elements Disrupt the smooth influence on the revival of morris dance in of kit and music from the current pedestrian flows the twentieth century. Manning’s interest Kirtlington side as well as other related Or frighten newt or toad? in morris and other folklore developed items such as the Whitsun horns from whilst he was an undergraduate student Ducklington. There will be workshops on And then there is the level at Oxford University in the 1890s. His whit-horn making and the seasonal songs of sound influence in researching, collecting, and Manning collected. Kirtlington danced at KIRTLINGTON MORRIS DANCING AT THE OPENING OF THE PERCY MANNING From jingling bells, too right reviving morris traditions was substantial. the opening and will be at Oxford Folk COMMEMORATION, PITT RIVERS MUSEUM, OXFORD, 20 FEBRUARY 2017 We must ensure no decibel He collected information on dances and Weekend. Above the safest height. associated customs (most of which had ceased to be regularly performed), and Lectures and Events No trailing wires to trip folks up lectured and published for the Folklore 6 May No high volt electrical ware Society. Pitt Rivers Museum (Blackwood No noxious substances Seminar Room), two half-day workshops, wafting about Perhaps most crucially he revived the 10am & 1pm Polluting the local air. Headington Quarry Morris Dancers with Bark-horn making – Chris Park a concert just a few months before they Free, open to all - www.prm.ox.ac.uk/talks Have baldrics and breeches met Cecil Sharp. The stimulus which had their day? this meeting gave to the subsequent 26 May In future must we dance collection and revival of morris dancing is Finstock Village Hall, 8pm In high-vis vests and safety well known. Percy Manning's explorations in Finstock boots and its neighbourhood - Finstock Village HEADINGTON QUARRY MORRISMEN, 1899 And bright, hard hats, Manning was also responsible for Music Festival - Mike Heaney PHOTO: HEADINGTON QUARRY MORRISMEN perchance? collecting and recording the dances of the Stanton Harcourt tradition and collected A restaging of the 1899 concert has Our safety goggles, padded information on the Kirtlington Lamb Ale. also featured Headington Quarry Morris gloves Dancers with the group Magpie Lane, while And something for our knees A variety of events have been planned in a morris display by Icknield Way Morris Have all our sticks been Oxford to commemorate Manning’s life Men of the Stanton Harcourt tradition, proven free and the breadth of his work including which Manning collected, accompanied From every plant disease? exhibitions, talks, concerts and dance the unveiling of a blue plaque at Banbury displays. Those still to come: Road, Summertown on 8 April. Perhaps I’m just too old for this My star is growing pale Exhibition displays In addition a book is now available, I’ll take up chess or tiddlywinks Until 15 May 'Percy Manning: The Man Who Collected 'Til it's time to hit the trail. Pitt Rivers Museum Oxfordshire', published by Archaeopress, Percy Manning in Oxfordshire Folklore – and edited by Mike Heaney. Reprinted with permission from Eric Brady's website: Museum trail PERCY MANNING, 1894 KIRTLINGTON MORRIS PITT RIVERS DISPLAY KIRTLINGTON MORRIS HATS PHOTO: BODLEIAN LIBRARY, OXFORD onlyinhull.wordpress.com/folklore-2 06 07 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk extraWinter/Spring 2017 A NEW CD FROM THEIR BAND The LLareggub Tradition an invitation to all Squires and Foremen

Cardiff Ladies were the only side to dance this tradition and consequently when, after 43 years, they hung up their bells in 2016, the tradition has also ceased to be danced. Roy Dommett noted the tradition and it is archived with The Morris Federation.

As founder members of The Women’s Rita Morris Federation we would not like Oyster Girls at 35 Chiverton to have seen the last of ‘Llareggub'. Who would have believed that back made by Mary Quant, but very We've had our If any Foreman or Squire would like to in 1981 The Oyster Girls would still be soon changed to black as they ups and downs have this tradition in their repertoire we going strong 35 years later? were much easier to obtain. over the last would be happy to come along and help Our original footwear was 35 years, and many changes teach it to your side. The team started when a few learned. For our kit, our original black bar shoes, but as we were of dancers and musicians, but Lynda of us morris wives got together thoughts were a red dress, with dancing in the North-West thankfully have managed to If you would like notation and music Edwards in protest at being left on the gold and green frills, but we tradition, we later changed to keep going, and had a lot of or any help please contact: sidelines watching the Men of ended up with a green dress green clogs. fun along the way. www.cardiff-ladies-morris.co.uk Wight, and thought why can't with red and gold frills, possibly we dance too? I remember because a redhead amongst us We had a couple of workshops, When we started, we had the Cardiff Ladies Morris were formed in 1973. As well as dancing Illmington, You can also see the tradition danced seeing the Poynton Jemmers at said red didn't suit her. one memorable one from Roy Men of Wight and Cloggies here Wheatley, Stanton Harcourt and a few others, they developed their own by Cardiff Ladies on YouTube: Whitby folk week around that Dommett, who taught us a on the Isle of Wight, now there tradition called 'Llareggub', named after the fictional Dylan Thomas Village www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4viG6AtlX0 time too and thinking we can We chose to wear green tights dance in 15 minutes, and called are nine sides, a lot of dancers in 'Under Milk Wood'. do that! It wasn't a popular originally, which I think were it 'Llareggub' (work that out). for a small island. To celebrate A5LMorrisXmas_Layout 1 16/09/2016 14:08 Page 1 decision at first amongst some our anniversary we had a lovely of the Men of Wight, but they Our first dance party and ceilidh, inviting all soon came around to the idea. out was outside the island teams and as many KAREN CATER DESIGNS They helped us to find dances The Woodvale of our old members as we and tunes, two/three musicians Hotel in could. A fabulous evening of MORRIS CARDS came to play, and in a short Gurnard, reminiscing. time had quite a few women blocking the FOLKY CARDS wanting to join. road with We're currently looking forward CHRISTMAS & YULE CARDS our 16 to dancing on the island of www.hedinghamfair.co.uk The name Oyster Girls came dancers Kefalonia in May with the T-SHIRTS from the tune of Mobberley, and three Ionian Pearls and other sides. and was the very first dance we musicians. Here's to the next 35 years! The Oyster Girls celebrating 35 years of dance in 2016 CALENDAR OF TRADITIONAL CUSTOMS Traditional British Clogs BOOKS BOUGHT & SOLD Phil Howard - Clogs & Leatherwork MOUNTED PRINTS Full-time professional Clog Maker ENGLISH TUNE-BOOKS All clogs are made entirely on the premises using only my own soles & TUTORS (not machine made) and full-grain leather uppers GIFTS & JEWELLERY Also: re-wooding and resoling; standard and extra-hard rubber soles (shods) and heels supplied; PERFORMANCE; original unused clog irons available, including clog nails MUSIC, SONGS and Leatherwork including: badges, keyrings, ear-rings, bell pads, belts etc. My own work so other designs can be made. FOLKLORE TALKS By Karen & Colin Cater For up-to-date prices and details of events, visit: www.nw-clogs.co.uk c 0161 494 0224 m [email protected] w www.facebook.com/philhowardclogs for a free illustrated catalogue; [email protected] 01787 462731 08 09 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017 Morris Ring dance in/out I was invited to attend the The Morris Ring Squire's dance-in/dance-out Ring Meeting Fee Lock, over the weekend of 2-4 September 2016, Morris Fed in Framlingham, hosted by East Suffolk Morris Men. This is a formal event whereby the Secretary Squire-elect of The Morris Ring officially takes over from his predecessor following the The final Quadrille of the ‘Original’ Garland Dance, Henley-on-Thames, election held in March; the previous six months being May 2016 • Photograph: Charlotte Dover an opportunity for a smooth hand-over.

basis? Almost instantly we both the set is crossed-over, reversed Nicki Pickering (Open Morris Chair) and I were guests of Adam Garland (outgoing Squire), Jon Melville, (Bagman), and said ‘yes’. or inverted. The resulting whole Steven Archer (Treasurer). Adam had asked us to wear kit, it is definitely more than the sum of being a formal occasion, and at the second stand he asked Although my brother has since its constituent parts. There really us to join him in a dance along with Brian Prettyman, the retired from the team, I still is no other dance like it. Squire of East Suffolk Morris Men. We danced Bampton Side- travel to Bolton for practices and Step (in the 'pram-pushing style'), followed by Fieldtown The Rumworth Morris dance-outs. I would rather drive If you want to see or contact Valentine, with Eddie Worrall (Squire-elect) playing ‘Up in Fours’ from the Royton Morris 200 miles to Bolton (on occasion Rumworth, please visit our melodeon. Dance, Chippenham Folk Festival, there and back in one day) than website or Facebook page, Jameson May 2008 Photograph: Andrew White dance with other North-West or send an email to the Team Although my 'Number One' topped about 6' 6" in his of Bolton Wooders teams closer to home. For me, Secretary, Peter Bearon: stockinged feet and can dance half a hey while I'm still Founded in 1976 by members of the Manchester Morris Men, the wanted was to dance North-West there is an authenticity about [email protected] thinking about group wanted to dance the local North-West style of morris in its Morris in the Rumworth style. the way Rumworth dances: the a foot- traditional setting and as closely as possible to its traditional style. Rumworth’s However, I lived in Berkshire and choreography, musicality and On Saturday 17th September together, I'd striking kit of blue breeches, white shirts with yellow and red sashes, and flowered Rumworth was over 200 miles ethos feel true to the original 2016, The Rumworth Morris nonetheless hats is also based on that of earlier morris teams from the area, one of the away in Bolton. spirit of the dance. celebrated its 40th anniversary like to think strongest influences being the Godley Hill Morris Dancers from Hyde in Cheshire. by performing at various spots I managed It was eventually at Chippenham One particular reason to keep around Bolton town centre with to acquit From the start there was a that we dance a lot more slowly Although I am possibly better Folk Festival in 2003 that going is the chance to dance their guests Rivington Morris and myself determination that public (or maybe that should be ‘less known for Cotswold Morris my chance came to join The ‘Royton’, quite simply the best the Mersey Morris Men. Dance respectably. performances would be to a high fast’) than many North-West with Berkshire Bedlam and Rumworth Morris. The team was morris dance ever! Collected by venues included the ornate You'll standard. Rumworth practised sides. Hammersmith, or as a Molly teaching a series of workshops Maud Karpeles and published in Methodist Mission in Victoria see me for eighteen months before dancer with Seven Champions, and I went along with my brother. 1932 as The Lancashire Morris Hall as part of its Heritage Open wearing my trademark dancing in public for the first Another deliberate decision was I have also danced with The We were very flattered to be Dance, this is a traditional dance Day, and Victoria Square in front "Levitation" • Photograph by Hazel Melville scowl while time at Rivington Lower Barn in to have a big set, with at least Rumworth Morris of Bolton for the asked if we wanted to join. The from the eponymous town near of Bolton’s grand Town Hall. In I'm trying to pretend I'm not forever a foreman and checking 1978. Rumworth also appeared three yards between each pair of past 13 of its 40 years. team explained that they had Oldham. This is the only dance in the evening we hosted a reunion other people's dancing in Hazel Melville's picture. But it at Chippenham and Lacock Folk dancers. The Conductor always other long-distance members Rumworth’s repertoire where the of current and ex-members, does illustrate the levitational qualities of the bracing East Festival that same year and has says this is so that Rumworth can I had seen Rumworth when they from Suffolk and Dorset who figures can be performed in any including a Rumworth-themed coast. performed at Chippenham and dance where they belong - in the made journeys south to Bampton, came along two or three times a order and its duration can thus quiz and music session. It was a other festivals at regular intervals gutters! Wimborne, Chippenham and year for weekend practices. Why be varied by adding or omitting very enjoyable way to celebrate Seated at the top table, the evening feast was an enjoyable ever since. We have also made Sidmouth festivals during the late didn’t we come along on the same particular figures. Rumworth’s the team’s 40th birthday. combination of formal Morris Ring speeches and current forays into continental Europe, Our repertoire currently 1980s and early 1990s, and to record is around twenty-five relevance. I was particularly heartened that Adam had most recently a trip to Dunkirk comprises nine dances: three the Kirtlington Lamb Ale where minutes! decided to extend the toast to 'The Immortal Memory' to all as guests of the In de Kring sword use garlands, one is a stick they processed from Blenheim of those involved in researching and maintaining the morris, and mentioned Mary Neal specifically. Those men who had dancers in 2014, two earlier visits dance, and the other five use Palace into Woodstock. I was The conductor calls from a found Nicki's and my dancing disquieting, or who felt our to Antwerp as guests of the Lange ‘tiddlers’, ropes, slings or ‘mollies’. impressed by their discipline wide choice of figures, some presence at the top table inappropriate, courteously took Wapper sword dancers, as well as The tunes accompanying the and by the dignity with which identifiable only from a particular the trouble to keep their views to themselves. a trip to Lünen near Dortmund in dances are especially chosen to they danced, like an unstoppable blast on his whistle. As well Germany. complement the figures. Many juggernaut of a team. I had as having a large number of Unfortunately, I had to rush off first thing on Sunday of our dances are based on ones previously danced some North- figures, there are varying steps, morning so was unable to stay for the dance-out in From its foundation, Rumworth originally collected in the North- West with a local team based on capers and even different sling Framlingham, although both Eddie Worrall and Adam developed a very distinctive style West though they have all been the Berkshire-Hampshire-Surrey movements. The dancers, band Garland's Facebook pages have plenty of photographs. of dancing. The team dances at a adapted to the Rumworth style. Of border, but the way they danced and conductor have to work strictly measured pace, allowing these, we see our original Garland did not click with me in the same together, with the dancers having This weekend represented the culmination of several years the dancers maximum freedom of Dance as our ‘signature dance’ way as Cotswold or Molly and I to respond as one to each call in of inter-organisation co-operation.A big and personal thank you is due to Adam Garland of the East Suffolk Morris Men, expression within the disciplined and have never taught it outside eventually gave up to focus on ‘Reel It’ from The Godley Hill Morris an instant. Everyone has to know ‘Fall Back’ from the Holme Chapel Mor- Chair of the Advisory Council, immediate past Squire to The format of each dance. This means the membership of the club. my other teams. What I really Dance, Middlewich Folk & Boat Festival, all of the figures, including when ris Dance, Sidmouth Folk Festival, June 2014 • Photograph: Christine Dover Aug 2004 • Photograph: Andrew White Morris Ring, and all-round good egg, for a wonderful idea.

10 11 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017 th Anne Bare Bones' 30 Birthday Bash Nelson

The women's border morris side celebrated with friends with a Happy Birthday to the team. who had travelled from Dorset, 1986 and is still flourish of colour, vibrancy, music and dance performed across Yorkshire and beyond. going strong. Loughborough town centre in several different styles, including As a grand finale all the sides North West, Border, and Cotswold. joined together to take part in a Friends Ripley Green Garters We always welcome massed dance, 'John Peel', which enjoyed themselves, and new members With seven visiting morris sides of Charnwood, Councillor David started under the Carillon and were well impressed by of any age. No joining Bare Bones to celebrate their Gaskell and Mrs Jan Gaskell, went around the bandstand. Loughborough, while Ripley qualifications 30th birthday on 17 September, welcomed all sides to perform their Although the Mayoress was not Morris Men said, “We all had an or experience are 2016, Loughborough Town centre display dance. wearing the most appropriate absolutely spiffing time!” required. did not stay grey and gloomy footwear she was happy to join We practise every for long. The audiences were The Mayor talked about in for a short time. Bare Bones Border Morris started Wednesday evening entertained and many a cheery Loughborough's heritage, such as in 1985 following a meeting of from 8pm to 10pm face was to be seen. At 3pm Taylor's Bell foundry, the Great The dancers then adjourned friends who thought it seemed in the Knightthorpe there was an air of excitement in Central Railway and how Bare for tea, cake, ale, and a meal to like a good idea. After an initial Methodist Church Bare Bones Border Morris, Sep 2016 Queens Park where the crowd Bones were also part of the town's reminisce and share good times practice period the side first Hall, 106 Knightthorpe Road, For more details visit our Photographs by Kev Ryan and The Mayor and Mayoress heritage. Everyone then sang, with current and past members danced out in public in summer Loughborough, LE11 5JU. website: www.barebones.org.uk

" " Charlotte I didn't know women were allowed to do that! Dover an extract from the exhibition to celebrate the morris federation's 40th anniversary

The 1970s brought about lots of were happy to help and encourage changes for women, it was a period women – Roy Dommett and Tubby of women’s liberation, a chance for Reynolds were both important many women to have new freedoms influences on many of the early teams and try new things, and morris and did a great deal to help them dancing was no exception. access new dances and information.

The first team that was formed was Mixed teams with men and women Bath City in October 1971, and other were admitted in 1980 and men’s early teams included Cardiff Ladies, teams in 1982 with the name of the Derby Crown, Ladies of Green Willow organisation officially changing to The Alton Morris at Swanage Folk Festival, 2015 and Maids of Barum. The idea of an Morris Federation in 1983. Since then Photograph by Ben Potton organisation of women’s teams was The Morris Federation has gone from raised in 1973 and after an advert strength to strength with over 500 sent out via EFDSS, the wheels were teams forming the membership today. set in motion to set up The Women’s EVOLVING TEAMS Morris Federation. Some people still think of morris dancers as only men, but thanks in no Alton Morris was originally a men’s Cotswold side The early women’s teams were small part to The Morris Federation, founded in 1979, but as membership declined met with a huge amount of the reality is that women are most in the 1990s the decision was made to trial some discouragement and in some cases definitely ‘allowed’ to dance, and no mixed Border. Their first season, in 1992, contained outright antagonism from many male one can stop them. a mixture of men’s Cotswold and mixed Border but dancers and from the Morris Ring. it was decided at the end of the season to There were numerous occasions If you would like to borrow the concentrate on the mixed Border alone. of men’s teams being actively rude photos from this exhibition, archive to women’s teams – some refused materials or promotional material Over the years, a number of teams around the to dance with them, while others about The Morris Federation to country have either moved from Cotswold to Border turned their backs rather than watch. display at an event, contact Mike or from single sex to mixed in order to keep going. However, there were some men who Everett: [email protected] The Maids of Barum at the 1976 Women's Morris Federation AGM massed stand in Barry Photograph courtesy of Sally Wearing 12 13 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017

NYFTE Dave & Finally, Dave Leverton If you're organising an event you The National Youth Folklore Troupe of England Heather who has been involved think might suit us, or if you know Leverton with the team since its NYFTE is looking for events at which to perform in 2018. Would your side have a suitable opportunity? of any youngsters who may be inception and has been interested in joining the team in overall leader since 1994, We've met many teams over the years at What's it all about? • Aims to perform to a high standard, 2018, we can be contacted at: has announced his retirement from Chippenham Folk Festival (our base camp receiving very positive comments from the team from the end of 2018. Dave & Heather Leverton festival) and at other events but of course Unlike other dance teams, NYFTE: those who see the group. NYFTE, Manor Farm Cottage If you know anyone who might be many may not be aware of us: • Practices once a year with a week long • We can join in busking with other sides, Chewton Keynsham interested in taking NYFTE forward, residential at Easter. run workshops or perform concerts up Bristol BS31 2SU to two hours long. probably as part of a new leadership What is NYFTE? • Retires its most experienced performers telephone: 0117 986 6316 team, please contact Dave to discuss th before their 19 birthday. mobile: 07831 101 755 the role. National Youth Folklore Troupe of England There are typically 20-40 team members email: [email protected] www.nyfte.org.uk (NYFTE pronounced ‘nifty’) has been • Recruits predominantly complete novices each year and since the team started in keeping English folk traditions alive aged 10-12 years old. 1990 there have been over 200 members. through young people since 1990. • Changes the repertoire every year Many have gone on to continue their NYFTE comprises youngsters from all over and keeps the programme fresh for involvement with music, song and dance An introduction to the country aged 10 -18 who busk, present performers, leaders, and audiences by both as performers and organisers - some continually developing new items or Boss Morris concerts, and run workshops at festivals professionally - and many sides have throughout the year. NYFTE performs: reworking existing material. benefitted from the input of NYFTE Boss Morris are unusual. Steve Cotswold (range of traditions varies each • Tries to tackle not just one or two 'pensioners'. The side was formed by Alex Merry in August year), North-West and Border Morris; ‘traditions’ but as many as possible. 2015 for a local procession in Stroud and Rowley Garland; Longsword; Rapper; Social, has had some interesting experiences. They • Consists of teenagers and rising Playford and Ceilidh Dance; Clog and Step have performed with Trembling Bells and Belle teenagers. and Sebastian at the Royal Albert Hall, All Tomorrows Parties Dances plus solo items e.g. Broom and Festival, Port Elliott Festival, and for Punchdrunk Theatre. the Cornish Weeding Paddle. The team However, their main purpose is dancing at local events – town members also sing and play for all the festivals and processions. performances. Apart from Alex Merry (founder of Belles of London City) the dancers are all new to morris (and to folk). Many are involved in the visual arts and their look is a big part of their identity. Boss have a different look every time. The contemporary style of costume and make-up has attracted many followers in the fashion world. The dances are mostly Cotswold in origin, and they have their own particular style rather than any specific village traditions. The teaching is shared by Alex and myself (Steve Rowley). Music is provided by myself, Mark Rogers (Outside Capering Crew) and Kathryn Wheeler. Left: The 50th birthday celebration for Magnus Fiennes (middle back row) the record producer and brother of Ralph, during Boss' Sisters of St. Roud phase • Photo: Steve Rowley

14 15 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017

Seven Champions Molly Photograph: Trina McKendrick

Dancing England 2017 Kev Theaker A review of the rebooted celebration of traditional dance, held at Sheffield City Hall on Saturday 18 February. Judith Invicta Turns 40! to contend with - blacking up, despite jet-lagged Kingsmen, The ideas and philosophy behind Bird the first ladies side in kent, invicta started in 1976 as Comments could gender equality and maintaining and rapid team changes at late Dancing England are as sound be heard such as, traditional dance and quality notice. Seven Champions dealt now as they were previously. invicta ladies morris. changing to a mixed side in 2012, "Did I really look of dancing. The professional with black face issues with their An event focused on dance rather they are a small side of 11 dancers but still going strong. like that?" "Oh! I remember standard of peripatetic dancers, usual good humour and then than song or music has to be a that stand/festival," and, prepared to travel to dance at finished their set with a beautiful good thing. "Goodness there were a lot a high standard, or to switch dance to ‘We shall overcome’. The On Saturday 17 September, By the end of the afternoon scrap books spanning Invicta's of Invicta children!” which between teams (and disciplines) most poignant and moving piece All strength to Phil, Edwin and Invicta were delighted to everyone was ready for 40 year history. drew us onto a photo taken is something that has grown. In was Fool’s Gambit working of Arwen for this one. Let’s support celebrate their 40th year of refreshments, so we at a Broadstairs Folk Festival doing so losing the geographical Banks of Green Willow. Elegantly the idea and hope for a further dancing where we welcomed adjourned to a local scout where someone decided placing of a tradition but driving danced with vigour and dignity revival of Dancing England. sides Hands Around, Rabble, hut which had been decked to determine the sex of standards always higher. High Kent Korkers, Greenwich, Rising out for a party in the Invicta a soon to be born Invicta quality dance teams are a fixture Larks and St Clements Clog, colours of red and white. child, now aged 26 and at festivals, in the best examples who brightened everyone's Here we enjoyed drinks and dancing with Kent Korkers! t is a brave person who looks an integral part of the festival and day in Sevenoaks town centre, birthday cake iced in the form at a successful, much loved also a vital part of supporting the Kent. of our 40th year badge and Once everyone had classic and decides to remake festivals. So the opportunity for it was an honour to have our revived and reminisced, it. The world of film is littered the public to be exposed to good We all danced at various founder member Jill Rowan we launched into the Iwith ill-advised re-stagings, dancing is greater than in the 80s. stands with gusto and present to cut the cake. evening entertainment reinterpretations and rewritten enthusiasm and were joined with a ceilidh by Rattle the ‘improved’ favourites. Dancing England 2017, the by a total of 12 past Boards. reboot, paired traditional members, who came The original Dancing England teams with their contemporary from their respective More dancing was enjoyed events in the 1980s showcased equivalents as far as possible, parts of the country to by all, with the band and the finest traditional English along with a few additions. So share our special day caller keeping everyone dance teams and then the revival High Spen, delivering a cracking - some even dressed on their toes. A great time teams of the 60s and 70s. At performance partnered with Star in their old kit! It was was had by all; however that time many of the traditional and Shadow; Bampton Morris set a pleasure to see so some dancers just didn't events were still very local, with alongside Fool’s Gambit, Horwich many of them and From the early want to give up even after teams not regularly performing coupled with Platt Bridge Morris, when given sticks or days of how the last dance. As the band outside their own territory. Redcar Sword and the Kingsmen Fool's Gambit • Photograph: Kev Theaker hankies they didn't Invicta Ladies played on, two couples took Therefore bringing them together dancing Kirby Malzeard. Step this is an example of what can be View footage of the event need much persuading started with to the floor vying with each into one event to showcase their dancing by Toby Bennet and Two done with traditional dance. As a produced by Written in Film: to dance, which just Jill's letter of other and the band, not to be dances was a novelty. It should Step were harder to separate in demonstration of where tradition www.youtube.com/ proves, once a morris encouragement the first to give up, but the also be noted that many younger traditional and new, despite a can go to Platt Bridge delivered a watch?v=1_oZNDAodB4 dancer, always a Founder member Jill Rowan, did the honours from Roy band finally had to draw the dancers actually had little wider wonderful set of steps to a Balkan stunning, precise and energetic th morris dancer. of cutting the 40 anniversary cake Dommett, through evening to a close. knowledge of the traditions time signature. competition routine which would Whilst we recuperated in to the making of the kit, and beyond their own speciality. put many northwest teams into This article originally The dancing concluded with readiness for the evening's the first dance out, and so Thanks abounded, with Overall, a fantastic celebration fits of jealousy. appeared in The Nut, all sides gathering at the Vine dancing, there was on through the years. It was everyone looking forward to The arena has changed, rapper of English traditional dance, true Edition 55, Spring 2017. bandstand and Invicta finished opportunity for everyone to a poignant reminder of what the next get together and the especially is stronger, more to the ideals of Dancing England Fortunately Horwich rounded To subscribe to The Nut, with two sets up for Vandals catch up on the intervening we looked like 20-30- 40 next 40 years. It was truly a diverse and in a different but very relevant to dance as off the performance part of the dedicated journal of rapper of Hammerwich, made up of years whilst looking through years ago, and a reminder memorable occasion, and time position than in the 80s. Other practised now. The performances evening with a strong driven set sword, contact: past and present members. our beautifully presented of times past. to start a new scrap book! traditions have their own issues were excellent throughout - of dances. [email protected]

16 17 www.morrisfed.org.uk Sutton High Street, nr Ely, 2010 fed extraWinter/Spring 2017

a Mummers Play in Mepal, told that work commitments from the though it was decided that dancers meant that there was one it would be taking historical Plough Monday when only Brian turned accuracy too far to have a out. In the words of Alf Shelton, Little cadger with a money box as Downham Molly dancer, "It’s necessary to they did in the 1930s. keep up the day."

Although all the original Many thanks to George Frampton and members have either his research over the years; his booklets disappeared to other parts have been invaluable to Mepal Molly. of the country, emigrated, or died, and the team Stretham, nr Ely, 2017 almost folded when Brian Cookman died in February jackets with tatters (but not to the extent 2005, new members have come from Mepal Molly of a typical modern border morris tatter a variety of backgrounds and a wide jacket), dark trousers with lallygags (a range of ages. There are now fifteen of length of string tied below to knee to us including myself - having followed 40 Years of Plough Monday Dance Outs prevent mice crawling up your trouser the team since 1992 and danced every leg), and a hat of some description (cap, Plough Monday from 2000 onwards. Do The 1970s was a decade when many people were top hat, trilby). We also black up. Initially, we rehearse? No! starting to be interested in Plough Monday this was old soot smeared on, but more traditions and Molly dancing. Amidst this interest Brian Cookman were a polka (composed Michael recently we’ve moved to using streaks In the 1990s, Mepal also started visiting arose one of the first revival teams (singer/songwriter/ by Brian for the main Czarnobaj of burnt cork or face paint. The Molly schools. We give a short talk, perform blues guitarist) broom dance); 'Inky rotates around the side each year and the calling on song, a broom dance, and I believe Mepal Molly were the first Molly then living in Mepal (seven miles NW of pinkey parlez vous' aka can dress how she pleases. then provide an opportunity for the revival team in the UK, ahead even of Ely), was intrigued by the Little Downham 'Mademoiselle from children to dance themselves. Seven Champions. Champs danced out Molly Dancers. Little Downham was a Armentières' for a processional broom Mepal Molly are also one of the few dance; and 'Keel Row' for the four-hand To the best of my knowledge, Mepal for the first time in January 1978, but village only five miles away from Mepal dancehalf horizteams tofeaturing have a 'calling shops on' 2013_Layoutsong. 1 23/09/2014 16:41 Page 1 Mepal danced on Plough Monday in and they were the last recorded Molly reel – similar to a social country dance. This may or may not be related to the Molly have danced out every Plough January 1977. (Plough Monday being team, dancing on Plough Monday fact that Brian had already introduced Monday since 1977, although I been Stretham, nr Ely, 2017 the first Monday after Epiphany - 6 in 1933. In the mid 1970s January - the day on which the three two members of the original SUPPORTING LIVE kings visited Jesus.) team were still alive and MUSIC FESTIV Brian visited the The Plough, Sidmouth, CornwAaLlSl, During the mid 1970s the release Little Downham's local pub. Crawley of Ashley Hutchins 'Rattlebone and Tunes were whistled, dances since 1976 , Oxford, BMG, R Ploughjack' album, and the English described and pints of beer iseley, T enterde Folk Song and Dance Society’s (EFDSS) consumed. Following this, BRITAIN’S FOLK & ACOUSTIC SPECIALISTS Broadstairs andn ,m Sot rIeve magazine article in spring 1974 had Brian examined the William s, raised awareness of these East Anglian Palmer photographs from the customs. original 1933 EFDSS article in the 1974 magazine and in In Cambridgeshire, Balsham Plough Boys addition visited Cecil Sharp restarted their Plough Monday tradition House for further research. in 1972, and a number of churches in Stretham, nr Ely, Red Lion pub lunchtime dance spot Plough Monday 2017 the Ely area featured a Plough Sunday Three dances were devised; Service. two featuring brooms and a team member known as That first year consisted of a series of the 'Sweeper' was tasked local dance spots around Mepal village, with clearing an area of followed in 1978 by an extensive tour snow, leaves etc, enabling of 23 villages and towns on Plough Our nine shops stock all kinds of acoustic & folky the dancing to take place. Monday. In the 1980s, Whittlesea Straw musical instruments from Britain and around the world! Bear Festival was added to the annual Mepal’s first dance out events, along with visits to Dancing Our expert staff are always on hand to give you free, friendly advice. involved six men (the England in Derby. 1930s team was all male BIRMINGHAM | BRIGHTON | BRISTOL | CANTERBURY | CRAWLEY and the modern team Little has changed since those early days. LEEDS | LONDON | MANCHESTER | WADEBRIDGE chose to follow that The team still has three dances, the pattern) – a 'Molly' (Man/ same costume and tunes. Our costume is World famous mail order service - 0845 130 9500 Woman), four 'Tommies' simple and individual to each performer. Mepal Molly performing in the village of Reach, East Cambridgeshire, and a musician. The tunes The Tommies and the musicians wear www.hobgoblin.com on Plough Monday 1978. Back-left: The late Brian Cookman

18 19 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk extraWinter/Spring 2017 Morris Dance Database www.bonny-green.co.uk notation for any link will give more information dances, although about the project I am of those Colin there is the undertaking. A downloadable teams, which Andrews opportunity to give form is there for sides to may include details of where provide information about their own this is available. themselves and their repertoire. composed Initially I am interested in dances. The prototype website Cotswold and Border style is functional, though far repertoire but there is the Mainly using from complete, and its final scope for all other forms of information appearance is likely to be morris and traditional dance from sides that very different and far more to be included. In due course, have published appealing. Cotswold and this form (or similar) will be the Oyster Morris details of border style dances are already basis on which sides will be The former editor of the their repertoire online and in the database and can be able to upload such information Morris Federation newsletter from other published sources, actively searched, as far as - and updates – directly into a a year of celebrating being 40 part 2: has been keeping himself busy I now have the prototype of the information available searchable database. Margaret since retiring from the post, such a database and have had allows. A table of morris clubs Since writing for the summer 2016 issue, Oyster Morris has continued their year them and other and for the past couple of assistance in beginning to get worldwide, with a link to their I acknowledge the tremendous th of 40 anniversary celebrations with a full programme of summer pub evenings. local sides for Darby years has been working on the the database searchable online. website (where available) and work that has already During the summer of 2016, for huge amounts of tea and procession, and the weekend the annual Hop concept of a database for all basic details of their styles of been undertaken by the Oyster Morris danced for the cake, before everyone got finished with displays at the Hoodening morris dances. I would now appreciate dance is also available, although organisations and individuals International Blackcurrant dressed up for ‘The Good Old Ampthill Gala Day by all sides, Thanksgiving service in help from the wider morris is not yet actively searchable. to which I have included links Growers Conference in Kent. Days’ theme party. Cocktails followed by fond farewells. Canterbury Cathedral. Oyster There is already a vast amount community. Firstly, in checking on the bonny-green website: Having performed a display at were enthusiastically Women was honoured as part of information available on the accuracy and content of On the home page, the bottom www.bonny-green.co.uk the Shepherd Neame brewery consumed followed by an The end of the summer found of our fortieth celebrations the internet but it's still far what is already there, and we offered the delegates Oyster at Towersey Festival, by being invited to perform easier to find information on secondly, for sides to provide Colin is a member of Exeter Morris Men and Winkleigh the chance to have a go. performing both in Thame in the nave of the cathedral teams performing morris in all information about their Morris, is the former Morris Federation Newsletter Editor, Most of them were very and on the festival site. In the during the service, and then its forms than the repertoire repertoire. I am not seeking and is currently a co-optee to the Morris Ring Archive Group keen and so we ended spirit of friendship, we held we went on to dance in the up with around a dozen another cocktail party where precincts and the town for sets learning to dance, we made new friends in the rest of the day. each led by an Oyster. If only all workshops could In December, we Trefor Owen attract such interest. made our traditional Christmas dance outing Gweithdy Clocsiau In July, we moved on Joint 40th birthday cakes for Oyster Morris in Canterbury, including (The Clog Workshop) to holding a joint 40th and Redbornstoke Morris an end of anniversary- Henbont Road celebration weekend with our excellent dinner and a jovial year pub lunch and the friends Redbornstoke Morris evening of party pieces from following day we sung as CRICIETH hosted on their home ground all the sides. At the end of many carols as we could Gwynedd in Ampthill. We were joined the evening our joint birthday over a single lunchtime A good time was had by all at LL52 0DG by guests Glory of the West, cake was cut and handed beneath the boar’s head 'The Good Old Days' theme cocktail party Home tel: 01766 523 695 Red Cuthbert, Sarum Morris, around together with the gift at the Railway Hotel, Workshop/Mobile: 07712 822 453 Stroud Morris and Windsor of a commemorative mug for addition to those ‘old’ friends Faversham. Email: [email protected] Photos by members of Oyster Morris and Shirley Dixon Morris for a day of dance in those in attendance. we had danced with earlier in WEB: treforowenclogmaker.co.uk Bedford. the year. This year we are practising in On the Sunday the sides earnest and looking forward At the end of the afternoon danced in Ampthill before September saw Oyster invited to performing at Sidmouth Clogs, Rubber shods, Fancy Laces, Badges and bits supplied as always the sides returned to Ampthill joining the Ampthill Carnival by Wantsum Morris to join Folk Week. “Good metal” Clog Irons fitted at the Workshop.

We make ALL our own Uppers, Rubbers and all our own Wooden Soles using only sustainable, local wood sources. Very few “Tree Miles” are run up in our business.

We can now make Clogs with Vegetarian Uppers though the colour range is limited. Sadly we don’t make the Nails yet – but I am working on that!

Stroud Morris Oyster men Glory of the West 20 21 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk extraWinter/Spring 2017 Headington Constant Billy at the amphitheatre Gerry Photograph: Robert Muller McCann & Sue Benson Go west! photos from Dartmoor Border Morris Treggie, Bagman/ Photographer

Adderbury outside the restaurant • Photograph: Lesley & Phil We'd been warned the mean this as an insult, but as weather could be very a favourable contrast to the changeable, but just as we precision and relative dullness gathered to dance again the of their military bands. Kingston Morris in Poland storm came with extraordinary 17 members of kingston morris, together with three very vital supporters, travelled from luton speed: a whirling wind that The team returned for lunch to gdansk on 1 July 2016 to perform for the good people of sopot on the baltic coast. seemed to blow a tide of before Andy's old friend Piotr Mayday Morning 2016 at the 'Panorama' at Kinnersley, during people uphill from the beach. took us all by train for a tour a break from dancing at the Upton Folk Festival. ingston Morris boasts a Polish elegant hotels and cafes, soft We managed a couple of of the Gdansk Lenin Shipyards, dancer, Ania, with a taste for sand and magnificent food. dances before thunder, the birth of Solidarity and the Last April, we appeared in English beer and an irresistible Gdansk was one of the great lightning and a biblical deluge rise of its leader Lech Walesa commercials for our sponsor hearty laugh. Her friends, Aris 'Hansa Towns' dotted along the sent us scurrying for shelter which ultimately led to the fall The Black Farmer. Kand Annetta, were in the UK on St Baltic coastline from the late (and more beer). of the old Soviet totalitarian George's Day in 2016, saw us dancing, 16th century, a vital trade route regime. We then toured the We still appear on his pack and were amazed and impressed enough connecting east and west, and The next day, we again centre of the magnificent old of sausages and without to suggest a tour to the seaside town of clearly a very prosperous city. assembled at the amphitheatre city rebuilt exactly to original warning, these posters have Sopot, where they run a restaurant. We settled into the area on a and by now, word had got plans after the devastating started appearing all over balmy first night and drifted around. A bigger crowd 1944 action as the Russian the south west. Sopot is on the Baltic coast, some 10 among the tourists taking moved in to hear our call to Army retook the city from the miles from Gdansk on the Gdynia road. on the local food and beer. The band at the amphitheatre • Photograph: Robert Muller arms with full band blasting. fleeing Wehrmacht. Here I am pointing at myself. It is the Gdansk/Gdynia play resort but Along with our Welsh member Janet we with five musicians we really filled the Dancing and playing went Autographs can be obtained the whole of Poland and much of central cheered Wales on to football victory in space and the white kit of the team was on for a good two hours, Our group returned home at this year's Sidmouth Folk Europe has spotted this gem with its the Euro Cup. greatly enhanced by the black backdrop including our musician Andy with wonderful memories of Week. of the amphitheatre. The applause was playing in for a jig, and ending this amazing country and its Up for communal polite at first but as we unfurled some with enthusiastic audience exceptionally friendly people. Has any other morris side breakfast the next of our centrepiece dances including participation in Bonny Green been immortalised in a bus day, kit on and out the much admired (by us) Manx Sword Garters. We also played and Will the morris catch on in shelter poster? into the morning air, Dance, The White Boys, and our vigorous sang a well-known Polish Poland? We can only hope our our first stand was the Maid of the Mill (Brackley), the crowd song, 'Szła dzieweczka', and small contribution will help. amphitheatre in Skwer loosened up and the noise grew. Our the audience Kuracyjny, outside the announcers Laurie and Ania (translating joined in with grand Sheraton Hotel, into Polish) were a brilliant double act. enthusiasm, near the magnificent singing and Sopot Pier and the We broke for lunch and headed for Aris swaying in time. Baltic Sea. Our group and Annetta's restaurant, Sopocki Kebab. Ania overheard was a good size and The restaurant, set in its own square some audience as the musicians off the main street, had a large open members in the started up with some area bathed in hot summer sunshine. square saying rousing tunes, people We arrived and settled into beer and how much they came to see what kebabs. The heat, the food and the liked us because these extraordinary dodgy dancing surface led to a much of our good Brits were getting less energetic show (nothing to do with sense of humour up to. Our version of the beer of course), and we decided and the fact Pudsey Day of Morris with good friend Steve Oaten, 'drinks Bampton Highland to adjourn and reconvene in the early that we weren't monitor' for Wreckers Morris. Steve keeps in contact with Mary for nine went evening, when it was hoped that crowds too accurate! their sponsor Skinners Brewery and takes his work seriously by down well, together would come into town from the beach. They didn’t sampling the brew to make sure it is safe for others to drink. Sword dance at the amphitheatre • Photograph: Robert Muller

22 23 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk fed www.morrisfed.org.uk Winter/Springextra 2017 extraWinter/Spring 2017

Women’s North West side good beer, and convenient dance Mayflower, from Ash Vale on the spots which don’t involve miles of Goathland Community Hub Hants/Surrey border, had a excellent trekking about was a big hit with our Situated on the North Yorks Shaun the Sheep, has donated time last summer visiting many of clog-shod ladies), and the Overton Moors, some nine miles a unique painting to be used the festivals in the south of England, Sheep Fair - which had no sheep but from Whitby, the village of to raise funds for the project starting with the famous Watercress a big enthusiastic audience. Goathland is probably better from which we have produced Festival in Alresford. Plus we've also enjoyed known as Aidensfield in the a limited edition run of 200 anniversary dance days David TV series Heartbeat, where prints. As well as featuring ourselves and with our friends at Hook Johnson sheep freely roam. The prints are numbered, two other local morris sides – Hook and Fleur de Lys Morris. However, Goathland is also measure 40 x 30 cms, Eagles and Basingclog – this festival home to one of the oldest have been professionally mounted on card, and come is a foodies’ paradise, with a mouth- Our several new dancers have had traditional sword dance teams, Goathland Plough with a signed watermarked watering array of food and drink on a baptism of fire, culminating with Stots, which, prompted by the certificate of authenticity. offer. a weekend at Sidmouth, and have reduction in local services, Each print costs £50, with all come through with flying colours. has become deeply involved money going to the building We also visited the Wessex Folk in building a new community funds. Festival in Weymouth for the first If you fancy being part of the team, hub in the village. The original painting was sold time in many years (which with its visit our website: When completed it will recently to a private collector picturesque harbourside location, www.mayflowermorris.org.uk provide a cultural exhibition for several thousand pounds Photograph: David Fisher centre to sword dancing, which should make these not become home to the Sword only a collector’s item but a Dance Union and create a sound investment as well. new performing arts venue, If anyone would like to buy a amongst other activities and print, I can be contacted on uses. 07870 738 467 or by email: Peter Lord, owner of Aardman keiththompson5la@btinternet. Mayflower Morris Animations and creator of com GGeett rreeaaddyy ffoorr ffeessttiivvaall sseeaassoonn wwiitthh...... On a sad note diary dates 2017 Sadly Debbie Howard passed away in September 2016 from breast cancer. A well-known, Linda 13 May 16 September respected, and loved musician and folk singer, Harling JMO National Day of The Lancashire & Cheshire she will be missed by many. Around 18 months Dance Clog Dance Competitions ago one of our dancers decided to try her hand Hosted by Leicester Morris Pendle Heritage Centre, at writing and choreographing a new dance for our group Men, in Leicester Lancashire Leap to you Feet. Debbie was totally in favour and was very encouraging. This dance had no name, and so as part of the Christmas festivities a suggestion box was set up and each 20 May 23 September member came up with a name to be taken out The Cliff Barstow Jig The Morris Federation of the box at the Christmas party. The name 'Debbie's Dance' Competition AGM Hosted by Green was pulled out; a fitting tribute for a memorable lady. Shepley Spring Festival Ginger Garland, Rackaback Beautifully handmade leather goods by folkies for folkies Many of you knew Debbie so I hope we do her proud Morris, Makara Morris and when we dance 'Debbie's Dance' for you at the coming 24 June Beverley Garland, in Hull · Morris kit bags · Belts · Concertina cases · Instrument straps · Masks · festivals in 2017. The Northern Counties · Bell pads · Bags, pouches & purses · Repairs · Bespoke, tooled & unusual work · Clog Championships 7 October Newbrough Town Hall, SDU Longsword Hexham Tournament at the Goathland Community Hub 6 August The John Gasson Jig Competition at Sidmouth Folk Week www.johngassonjig.org.uk

www.leatherforfolkies.co.uk e: [email protected] Know of an event that should be featured here? Send details to: [email protected] facebook.com/leatherforfolkies 0114 233 6146 / 07958 15 45 05 The Morris Federation is not responsible for events organised by external organisations Debbie Howard 24 25 fed www.morrisfed.org.uk extraWinter/Spring 2017 Morris goods and Paul White's Morris Federation merchandise DIARY Nuts to climate change, PUBLICATIONS BELLS and what's morris got to do with wassail? Cotswold Glossary: An invaluable reference book including definitions Please state brass or nickel plated when ordering bells. and was whisked away responsible for clouding It's plain bread or toast in my of steps and figures found in two or more traditions; a cross-reference Sizes are approximate, as supplied by the manufacturer, and are to all Cotswold traditions and types; terms used by different authors measured as the diameter from the outside of the rim, across the slot. to lie down amongst the reality. Or perhaps these experience. for the same movements; Morris musicianship and much more. £6.00 broom. Then her world particular wassailers had gone Price per bell: verybody's favourite went round and round. But off track a bit and wandered Devon native Jim Adderbury: The history of the tradition, copies of original notation Members Non-members comic politician, you get my drift... into a holly thicket or a dark Causely is passionate and from the Blunt manuscript and modern notation with Postage and packing: Donald Trump, and forbidding laurel patch knowledgeable about easy-to-follow diagrams for 13 stick and 13 hanky dances. 3/4” £0.35 £0.60 Up to 100 bells any size £4.35 believes that the And then there's Nuts in May, where they would certainly traditional song and music Includes photographs and music. £7.90 7/8” £0.50 £0.70 E Up to 200 bells any size except 11/4” £4.35 Chinese nation created a nursery rhyme written in the find themselves among the and is well known on the 1” £0.55 £0.80 the concept of global 1890s. Its meaning is clear leaves so green, and a little folk scene throughout the North West Morris: Notations, illustrated with figures and diagrams Up to 200 bells 11/4” £8.70 11/8” £0.60 £0.90 warming in order to make and oft repeated as if to drive disorientated, what with the land. Recently, on Facebook, for ten of the best North West Morris dances. £6.50 Over 200 bells please contact the Treasurer 11/4” £0.75 £1.00 US manufacturing non- the message home: cider and all. Jim had something very Wheatley: A very pleasing tradition to dance and yet one of the most competitive. Well, it's a interesting to say about straightforward. This book was produced from a complete review of Diameter of bells: theory. But my own research Here we go gathering nuts in 'Tis true, unless climate the morris and the wassail, source material and includes current practice and innovation. £5.60 (actual size) demonstrates that, if they May, nuts in May, nuts in May. change is at work, an apple knowing he might be opening are responsible, they must Here we go gathering nuts orchard, green in its leafy a can of worms, he wrote, Hinton: Traditional and creative Morris.£6.10 3/4” 7/8” have begun the process some in May, on a cold and frosty loveliness, would then, as “My local wassail has recently centuries ago. For the truth is morning. now, be a rare sight at the had a request from a side of Abram Circle: Provides background, complete notation, pictures and music for the Abram Circle dance. The dance originates from the North recorded in English folk song turn of the year. So, scientists morris dancers who expressed West but has a different structure to most North West dances. £5.60 and old nursery rhymes. Take OK, a cold and frosty morning and politicians alike, look to an interest in coming along to The Nutting Girl: in May is not unheard of in your laurels, and holly bushes. dance in January.” Molly: Dancing into the Twenty First Century. £5.50 modern times and sensible 1” 11/8” 11/4” Come all you gentle maidens, folk are still well-clouted And whilst on the subject of He, and others, were against BOOKLETS who listen to my song. until May is out. But in my wassailing, I was surprised the idea. Politely, as is his A series of A5 booklets with between 8 and 20 pages It is a little ditty and it won't experience, nuts are not and pleased to see a picture way, Jim – himself a morris detain you long. abundant at that time of year. in a national newspaper early dancer - wrote that morris Warm-up exercises: Clear diagrams and careful explanation in the year and a caption sides often hijack other of exercises designed to prepare dancers and reduce the risk describing Leominster Morris, traditions. Jim would like to of injury. £1.80 MORRIS FEDERATION MERCHANDISE torches alight, heading up a see all our traditions keep Stickers: Raglan Bantamcocks Morris: characteristics of the tradition, 4” diameter bearing the Morris Federation name and logo – self- wassail procession from their their distinct identity, “We've notation and some music. £3.20 adhesive for music cases, files, etc.£0.90 local brewery to a nearby only got one night a year to Twenty Years On, 1975-1996. £1.20 orchard. The story explained, do our thing! After all," he Leather Badges: “The tradition sees morris said, "wassailers can't just Women and the North West Morris Dance. £1.20 2” in diameter bearing the Morris Federation name and logo. dancers place a cider-soaked roll up and perform at morris Available in gold on black background, or coloured on natural piece of Christmas cake on events." Beginners and Basics: Roy Dommett’s ideas on the basics of background – please specify. £1.50 Cotswold. Essential reading for leaders and foremen.£1.50 a tree, sprinkle cider around Metal badges: its roots, light torches, dance I have danced with two sides Border Morris: a brief outline. £1.20 1” in diameter, brassed, bearing the Morris Federation name and logo. and sing the wassail song to that take the lead on wassails, A Few Facts About the Morris. £1.30 Gold on burgundy background. £2.50 Going nuts in May! ensure a good crop for the each with a different level of It's of a fair young damsel, and As I write, in January, the year.” involvement, and Jim's words Calico bags: she lived down in Kent. wassail season is upon us. have struck a chord. One CDs Natural calico shopping bag, with gusset, displaying the Morris Federation logo on one side and the names of traditional forms of Arose one summer's morning Not a particularly leafy time That's as much as I know of surely does blur the other and “And the ladies go dancing...” Double CD of various artists, dance on the other. £4.00 and she a nutting went... of year. But the first line of the tradition, except cake weakens both traditions when celebrating 40 years of the Morris Federation.£11.00 one wassail number tells a is a bit of a luxury version. performed as one. Items with 40th anniversary logo: Now, if she was a nutting different story: Perhaps life is generally more “The Adderbury Morris Men sing and play the music of the T-shirts, poloshirts, sweatshirts, fleeces and jackets available in lots of in summer, then she was sumptuous in Worcestershire. Bottoms up, and...relax. Adderbury tradition”. £11.00 styles and sizes. Other items such as hats or bags can be embroidered experiencing a very different Here we come a wassailing to order. Available directly on-line from: Special offer! Adderbury Morris Men CD plus a book on the climate to the one we know among the leaves so green... Adderbury tradition.£15.00 www.snappycrab.co.uk/products/107/morris-federation-40th Journalist, editor, ukulele player, and singer, Paul White has been today, when nuts are an dancing the morris since the year 2000. He is a founding member of autumn speciality. Of course, One explanation for this odd both Wreckers and Cat's Eye in Cornwall, helped form Couptrain Morris All prices are correct at time of printing and include p&p (UK only). Prices only apply to Morris Federation members. her understanding of nutting bit of historical description (France) and Turncoat, and has also danced with Lodestone. Paul can was conceivably very different could be the cider. Normally occasionally be found in Europe introducing fellow campers to the Please contact the Morris Federation Treasurer for a form: to our own. She did, after all, strong and liberally dispensed joys of morris, using baguettes, umbrellas, or tent poles for sticks. Jenny Everett, Willow Cottage, 20 High Street, Sutton on Trent, Newark, Notts, NG23 6QA meet a brisk young farmer at these events, it could be contact: [email protected] twitter: @morrisbells or Facebook Call: 01636 821672, email: [email protected] or download a form from: www.morrisfed.org.uk/docs/shopuk.html November 2016 27 Welcoming you to the City of Culture

H E Y ’ – B G, G G FG, M M R M – M F

Among the highlights of the day will be your S, S 23. chance to dance on the unique and award- All the dance spots winning Scale Lane Bridge – the only bridge in will be within walking the UK where you can stay on it as it swings. distance of the historic You’ll also visit the Museums Quarter in our Guildhall, your base for historic Old Town; Holy Trinity Church – Britain’s the day as well as our newest minster; the ruins of Beverley Gate, a evening ceilidh venue. key site in the English Civil War; plus our lovely In preparation for Hull’s marina and up-and-coming Fruit Market area. year in the spotlight, extensive works have been under way during the past year to transform Please email as soon as possible to indicate your interest in dancing at this the city. By late September most areas should be event to bookings@hulldayofdance. completed, with lots of lovely new squares and com. You’ll ﬁ nd our draft programme COMING piazzas just waiting to be danced on. and booking form in this TO STAY? newsletter, as well as on the Hotel occupancy Morris Federation website in the city is at an and on our website, www. all-time high, owing hulldayofdance.com. The to the interest in City form should be returned by of Culture events, so June 15, 2017, so please if you are planning to don’t delay! book accommodation, you MUST do it at your earliest opportunity to www.hulldayofdance.com l Find us on and avoid disappointment.