After just 10 weeks from the concept of forming a Border style Morris group in Oswestry, through publicity to attract interest and traction for musicians and dancers then practicing four dances and making their own “tatter jackets”, Oswestry Border Morris has performed its own first public gig.

They performed at the Berlian Deg Farm Apple Pressing, something that has typically been done for centuries at Apple Day events to celebrate the harvest and is an old English folk dancing tradition.

Why is Morris dancing important? Founder Mike Lade said,

“Morris dancing is important because it serves as a living cultural bridge, preserving centuries of English folk history, community identity and traditional music.

There are basically six styles of Morris dancing across our isles. We are in the raw, energetic, stick clashing style of Border Morris that exists notably on the Welsh and English border so it is fitting for Oswestry. We are mixed gender group and it brings people together as a social bond. It’s good for keeping fit and improves coordination. Great for mental wellbeing and it’s just plain fun with lots of laughter”.

Oswestry Dark Morris welcomes men and women of 16plus who wish to be part of this Morris group (called a ‘side’) as a dancer (no prior experience required).

Please contact Mike on 07803 038858, via Facebook @OswestryDarkMorris or via email at mikelade1975@gmail.com. See our web site at www.oswestrydarkmorris.co.uk.