Winter is over, spring is here and The Romney Marsh Morris (RMM) are dusting off their clouts (handkerchiefs) and polishing their bells, ready for a new season of dancing out.
The local group of traditional dancers have been busy practising through the winter months in New Romney, and, like many, battling various members being struck down with Covid. However, their sights now turn to their first ‘stand’ of the year, which will celebrate St George’s Day, April 23, at The Famous Ship Inn, Sandgate, at 12:30, where they will be joined by Headcorn Morris.
The following week, on May Day, Sunday, May 1, traditionally the most important day in the Morris calendar, RMM have a full schedule of events lined up.
Traversing the county from the very early hours of the morning in their green, yellow and black outfits, they will gather at 5am to dance up the sun adjacent to The Star Inn, in St Mary in the Marsh, followed by breakfast in the pub.
They then make their way to Woolton Farm Cider brewery, in Bekesbourne, Canterbury, at 10am, to dance, tour…and taste. The side will then wend their way to The British Lion, Folkestone, for a lunchtime dancing session at 12:30pm, after which they will probably collapse in a heap!
Under the new Squireship of Judith Ruffhead, the first lady Squire of the team, a full programme of events are planned for this summer, taking them far and wide, through Kent, Sussex and Essex, including a celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and attending the Folkestone Airshow.
Romney Marsh Morris will be supporting The Romney Marsh Community Hub as their chosen charity for 2022.
Further details of the side, and up to date information on their programme can be seen on their Facebook page, Romney Marsh Morris, and on www.romneymarshmorris.com.
Image Credits: Chris Lawson , RMM .