AVMM were delighted to be invited to this well organised event on a warm sunny day in a delightful village that most of us had never previously visited. Morris Dancing does not seem to be a frequent occurrence in these parts and we had numerous conversations and questions about our origins, as well as inquiries about joining the side and potential future bookings at this and adjacent villages.

With 13 dancers and a brace of musicians we kept an enthusiastic crowd well entertained for the whole of our allotted time slot. I was slightly concerned that some of our performers might struggle in the heat of an Indian Summer, but was reassured by the presence in the side of a veterinary surgeon as well as an eminent doctor, a geriatrician, no less. In the event, both horses and dancers came through the afternoon unscathed and the standard of dancing throughout, with two sets for every dance, was remarkably high. Even our youngest dancers proved their worth with Dylan capering as high as anyone in the side and both Alfie and Elijah giving flawless performances in Postman’s Knock, with the latter doing this dance in public for the first time. Ryan marshalled his troops throughout the afternoon in exemplary fashion and we had no less than 26 dancers for the Shepherd’s Hey invitation Jig, without the need for any cajoling of members of the crowd.

As we concluded our slot with Old Woman followed by Brighton Camp, it was time to repair to the bar to rehydrate ourselves and enjoy a chat and the generous refreshments on offer. There I met a bar steward who turned out to be a former pupil, whom I allegedly made captain of my Junior Colts Rugby XV some time in the distant past. Matt demonstrated an impressive knowledge of many of the 14 beers on offer as well as, surprisingly, that niche libation, rhubarb cider. Well AVMM attracts all sorts!

Richard writes: We would like to thank Stratton Audley Parish Council and the organising committee for the invitation to dance. There were lots of volunteers working to make this such a special event, but I would like to single out Leah (our contact) who had worked tirelessly to organise stalls, music and dancing for a June event which had to be cancelled due to severe weather. Then Leah and the team had to start organising all over again for the re-scheduled September event! Thank you, Leah, for your enthusiasm for what we do. We’ll look forward to your next village Festival. We were really pleased to help you support your three chosen charities – Thames Air Ambulance, St John’s Ambulance and St Mary & St Edburga Church, Stratton Audley.

We dance next Saturday at 2pm in Wiggington. Let’s hope for another fine day and another excellent day of fun and high-quality dancing.

John