News: Morris Men at the Mitre

Winchester Morris Men and Basingclog Morris made their annual visit to Chilbolton last night.

Hosted by the Abbots Mitre, the two Morris groups continued a tradition that dates back more than five hundred years,

With their weapons having been distributed, Winchester Morris Men took to the floor.

There was no holding back - splinters of wood flew as the dancers got into their rhythm.

It was Basingclog Morris’s turn, all kitted with their eponymous clogs.

Their hats contained Ascot-rivalling floral displays.

Hydration breaks were compulsory, but seemed popular.

Once refuelled, it was back to the dance.

The Dino Baffetti Binci squeezebox contains hand-made reeds, and is described as “like taking a Ferrari engine and putting it in a Mini”. Basingclog’s musicians made good use of them.

Clogs are made to order for the individual.

It was a well-attended and jolly affair. It proved that there is nothing better on a hot Summer’s evening than standing around with a pint, watching someone else working hard.

If you would like to see them again, both groups publish their schedules online.