Approaching Wigginton, we encountered a heavy shower but this soon cleared, giving way to beautiful September sunshine, as 12 dancers and three musicians assembled next to the Dog Show arena where we were on first!

As the weather continued to hold, lots of people stopped to watch us dance as they enjoyed the fete’s numerous attractions. The grassy surface was a little challenging but we adapted and realised that we truly are an all-terrain Morris team. We were delighted to welcome guest musician Adrian on harmonica (Adrian and his band ‘Main Street’ were playing later) and Isabel returning on violin. Mike was also back to play hurdy-gurdy alongside Donald on melodeon. It was great to have a full-strength group of excellent musicians playing for us again after the summer break.

After warming up the crowds we invited audience members to join in our Shepherds’ Hey jig, with plenty of participants forming two sets of dancers, including our friend Megan from Sharp & Blunt. As ever, we so enjoy sharing our tradition more widely and especially with young dancers.

Richard writes: We should like to thank the Wigginton Village Hall Trustees for the invitation to dance at such a beautifully organised event and above all, we would like to thank our contact, Rachel for excellent communications and for all her support. Rachel said that we helped to create a great atmosphere, which is always what we hope to do. Thank you Rachel, we’ll look forward to the opportunity to support your next event.

Our singing on the introduction to Brighton Camp may have startled the dogs waiting for their event to commence, but it was the perfect conclusion to an afternoon of dance with the changeable September weather being very kind to us indeed!

Squire Ryan