The East Kent group in full ‘flight’ on The Bayle Photo: Ray Duff
Story and images by Ray Duff: The bells were a-jinglin’ and the sticks a-clashin’ this past weekend as four jolly troupes of Morris dancers pranced and preened across Folkestone!
The reason for all this merrymaking? Why, it was the 72nd anniversary of the East Kent Morris Men, who first stepped out in the town way back in ’53!
Romney Marsh troupe dancing their jig outside the British Lion Photo: Ray Duff
The colourful capers kicked off with a flourish outside the Leas Cliff Hall, before the dancers jigged their way through the town centre. Spectators were then treated to two lively shows outside the British Lion pub on The Bayle, followed by more fancy footwork down on the Harbour Arm. Not ones to rest on their laurels, the dancers even hoofed it up to the Battle of Britain Memorial site at Capel on Sunday morn!
The Wolfshead and Vixen group circle to entertain Photo: Ray Duff
Leading the revelry were the East Kent lads themselves, spiffily turned out in their traditional whites, bells a-ringin’ and sticks a-tappin’. Joining them in the fun were the Romney Marsh Morris, lookin’ rather natty in their green, black and flowery get-up, the Wantsum Women and their pals in bright black and yellow, and the Wolfshead and Vixen Morris, also sportin’ green, black and yellow. Each troupe had their own musical maestros to keep the rhythm lively!
The multi-troupe dance formation begins as the musicians combine Photo: Ray Duff
And what a sight it was when all the groups joined together for a grand finale after each set! The crowds were utterly charmed by these delightful displays of traditional English merriment. Hip hip hooray for the Morris dancers!
More info: East Kent Morris: https://www.facebook.com/eastkentmorris/