AVMM were happy to participate for the first time in the Banbury Friendship Festival (AVMM is also the first Morris side to dance at this festival). The event is an annual celebration of friendship and the cultural diversity that exists in this part of north Oxfordshire. On a very hot afternoon in Banbury market place, nine dancers and two musicians entertained a decent crowd during a 45 minute set which featured a broad selection of our dances.

The level of performance remained high despite the heat – although the call to dance “Black Joke” seemed to be greeted with slightly less enthusiasm by our dancers than is usual! Our last dance and audience participation number, “Brighton Camp” introduced four enthusiastic newcomers to the delights of Cotswold Morris and the close attention of Charlie the Horse. I hope that some, at least, will wish to learn more about AVMM’s unique style and get in touch about attending future practices.

Squire John Ekers