Eight dancers and a whole band of musicians came together to represent Adderbury at Mr Hemmings Abingdon day of dance. Mr Hemmings are one of the 4 oldest Morris sides recognised by Cecil Sharp for having a continuous tradition since probably the 1600s. The day was incredibly warm but we were joined by a Bride to be, belly dancers from Ashnah and Summertown Morris who all danced through the heat. Credit union particular to Summertown who were step perfect all day!

Mr Hemmings declared, “It’s a hot summer’s day!” (And he’s danced it for four hundred years). With banners and horses and corn dolls in tow, The dancers and bride and the belly-dance show, All filled up the market with cheers and cheers.

We hid in the shade and the music was sweet, Jenny Jones started the day with the girl we loved best rushing in Haste to the Wedding. While Constant Billy set town halls a-ringing, With stick-clashes, bells, and fantastic display.

Then into the sun where the Shepherds make Hay, A monstrous task in this heat! But with Hemmings’ own bride, Elijah and Adderbury stood side-by-side, As Summertown and Ashnah watched on in the day.

A spot of Shooting just right before lunch, Left hobby horses dropped on the ground. Revival was found at the Kings Head and Bell— A pub with two names so exceptionally swell, The finest refreshments – just as well!

Revived by the ale, The Black Swan’s sharp cry, Soon drew the sides back to the heat. The Bluebells of Scotland rang out to the sky, As the Princess Royal watched eight men dance by, Before finding shade from the street.

Back to the square for the heat of the sun, An Old Woman joined in to watch a Jockey go to the Fare, who leapt to the tune, Bound for Brighton Camp under a midsummer moon,

The shadows grew longer as the day reached its close, The music began to subside. But the echo of bells lingered in the air, As the Morris men and women scattered from the square, Drifting home on the midsummer tide.

Iain Wilkinson