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Boxing Day 2009
The side continued its long tradition of dancing around the village of Woodchurch on Boxing Day with three entertaining performances. Geoff, Richard, Terry, Robin, Pete, Dave and Drakee stepped out, whilst PayTone was musician and Colin Crier. After wonderful hospitality at Graeme’s in Lower Road (including a rather delicious punch), it was onto the first stop at The Community Hall where Julian and his guests were waiting inside. It was rather fortunate that the first stand was indoors as the weather was not kind initially with heavy rain. Some well executed dances and fine hospitality later, we then walked through the village to Pilgrim Cottage where Andy – Former Morris man himself, looked after us superbly with more punch and some lovely food. With a good crowd watching and the weather now dry, we performed a number of dances including a Valentine and Skirmish. Then it was on to the two village pubs – first The Bonny Cravat which was absolutely packed with customers, many of whom were kind enough to step outside and watch us perform. The audience were extremely generous with the collection and a good number of dances were performed including Old Woman and Upton – in which Dave made his debut. Finally, it was onto an equally busy Six Bells where once again we were wonderfully looked after. It was good to see both village pubs so busy. The day finished at Six Bells Park at Grandad’s Windmill, where despite the return of the rain the side celebrated the end of the traditional Boxing Day dancing with Chilli supplied by Colin, Roast Potatoes and Gazebo courtesy of Christine and hospitality so wonderfully provided by Brenda, Geraldine and Terry.
21st - 23rd December 2009
Mummers Play – Dr Faustarse, Goblins on the Job
After three months of rehearsals, the side revealed their latest Mummers Play – Dr Faustarse, Goblins on the Job over three nights between 21-23 December. After a week of very cold weather including snow and treacherous ice, the illustrious company of Woodchurch Mummers appeared in six pubs, collecting approx £400 for local charity. The Premier was at The Swan at Wittersham, where we had a wonderful audience who participated in the right places and made for a really good start to the week. Then it was onto the White Hart at Newenden where the audience was smaller but nevertheless the pub equally as welcoming, providing us with a wonderful home made stew which was extremely welcome on such a bitterly cold night. The 22nd was even colder, with very difficult driving conditions but nevertheless we made it the The Dukes Head at Hamstreet and were delighted that we did, with one of the largest audiences we have enjoyed at that pub. The collection was generous, as was the Landlord. Then it was onto The Bell at Ivychurch which never lets us down and this was no exception, with a packed audience, another good addition to the collection and some lovely ale and food provided by the pub. The customers there were very appreciative and it is little wonder that this pub has now become a very popular stand amongst the men. The final night began at The World’s Wonder, where once again we enjoyed one of the best audiences we have had there, with a packed restaurant who seemed to enjoy the play and again, supported the collection very well. The pub provided some fine ale. Lastly, our traditional finale at The Six Bells which again was incredibly busy, with standing room only in the bar as we gave one of our best performances of all. Kim provided some lovely ales and also some fine food which was greatly appreciated by all of the participants.
In all, the Mummers Play was a wonderful success and the work that went into it over the past months seemed very worthwhile, with two local charities again benefiting from the very generous local customers.
4th October 2009
Now is the Hour – Six Bells Beer Festival
The year went full circle and the curtain came down where it was first raised after May Day all those months ago – at The Six Bells Beer Festival. We were delighted to be joined by Drakee, Robin, Brian, Jenny, Lisa and Phil and these joined Geoff, Mike, Robin, Richard, Terry, Pete and Dave for a very enjoyable final stand. The weather was bright and sunny and the Six Bells had put on an array of fine beers in the garden. Paytone, Lisa and Brian played along with Ali and Colin was Crier. We performed many of our favourite dances for the final time this year including Postman’s Knock, Vandals, Old Twanger and Shepherd’s Hay and then we gathered together all who wished to take part for our very last dance of the season – The Bonny Green – in which we were delighted to see Graham and our Founder Dave Grabbham take part. It was a lovely end to a very enjoyable season. There was live music, good beer and plenty of well-wishers with which to end our season and a few favourite songs were completed with ‘Now is the Hour’ which was our Morris Farewell to the 2009 season. Now we are already looking ahead to the Mummers Play at Christmas, Boxing Day and the 20th Anniversary season in 2010………If you would like to join us please call Geoff on 01233 860330
3rd October 2009
Tenterden Folk Festival
The side were in top form for our penultimate performance for the 2009 season at the Tenterden Folk Festival. We had an abundance of musicians (Paytone, Trooper, Lisa and Alison to name but four) and Geoff, Chris, Pete, Richard, Terry, Robin, Mike and Dave were joined by Drakee, Robin and Ian during the day. Colin was Crier. We boarded the Bus at quarter to ten and by ten past we were performing the first dance of the day outside the Town Hall as other sides were still getting their wits about them outside the Woolpack. We then danced throughout Tenterden during the day including outside Lloyds Bank, The Woolpack, M and Co, The Library and Prezzos as well as at the Steam Railway Station. We received a number of invitations to accompany different sides next year. At 3pm we took our traditional place at the front of the procession through the town as the host side and lead over 40 Morris sides through the High Street. Stockport Morris did the first Show-dance after the parade and we then followed on with one of the best Vandals of the year. We stopped to watch our friends from Oojah Kapivvy at the show-dances. During the day we enjoyed The Vine, The White Lion and The Woolpack before getting the bus home to Woodchurch at half five. A long but very enjoyable day.
25th - 27th September 2009
Weekend Ale at Eltham
In glorious weather an intrepid 8 (Geoff, Chris, Richard, Terry, Pete, Robin and Mike with Colin as Crier) set out on the Friday to join around 17 other sides of mixed style and orientation for Blackheath Morris Men’s 40 years Anniversary celebrations. Based at a wonderful venue in Chislehurst (Old Elthamians Rugby Club) we met and mingled from 6 pm onward enjoying good beers, a timely chilli con carne and a little night music.
We pitched our tents in the Playing fields of Elysium, or was it the Old Elthamians, awaking to the sun rising and warming the day on Saturday morning. After cooking sausages and bacon on the camping stove provided by “always prepared” Squire Geoff, we then went to the cookhouse for another full breakfast provided by the hosts.
Three old Routemaster buses took us to the Borough market, where after a pint or two we proceed to wow the assembled crowd. With 4 groups of 4- 5 sides we processed from the Market Porter, to the Thameside Inn, old stomping grounds of course from our previous Borough Market Stands, plus our first ever dance at The Anchor and culminating in a final massed stand at the Founders Arms on the banks of the old River Thames which still kept on rolling, saying nothing. We performed a wide repertoire to the utter amazement of all (including us). Our final valedictory Vandals was exceptionally well received , despite strong competition from larger and well-rehearsed sides. Brian played throughout the day, as well as performing for the Kent Korkers and it was nice to have Lisa and Robin as well.
Back to Chislehurst for the feast, which proved most ample and merry, supplemented by a few more ales and followed by a Ceilidh - more music and jollity. On a beautiful clear evening Chinese lanterns were sent skyward to confuse the populace North of the Thames that perhaps UFO’s were flying.
After a good night's rest in our little encampment, we took an early breakfast and returned to rest on our laurels back home in Woodchurch... with the memories of a truly wonderful weekend expertly organised by Blackheath Morris to whom we extend hearty congratulations on surviving for forty years.
20th September 2009
Autumn Equinox at The World ’s Wonder
It was a day of disappointment and surprises as three sides celebrated the turn from Summer to Autumn at the now traditional Autumn Equinox stand at The World’s Wonder. Disappointingly, Oojah Kappivvy couldn’t make it and it was sad that our old friends from Hastings weren’t there. However, we were surprised that East Kent Morris had decided to join the stand and with Motley Morris we had a very good mix of sides for the event. Geoff, Chris, Terry, Mike, Pete, Richard, Robin and Dave made up the Woodchurch dancers with Paytone playing along with the many other musicians including Brian and Lisa and Colin was Woodchurch Crier. Dancing from noon we went through a good repertoire of dances. The World’s Wonder, currently undergoing decoration and refurbishment, had put on a wonderful Hog Roast plus some very good beers for their mini beer-festival. Despite there being rain in the morning, the weather cleared up for the stand and whilst never sunny, it was dry and warm enough for a good stand. After the final dance, a three-way ‘Postman’s Knock’ it was into the pub for sandwiches and some impromptu tunes and songs. We were also surprised to find that Crooked Style, who had joined us at the Jig For Victory in June, were playing in the afternoon and they entertained those remaining from 4pm. A big thank you to everyone at the World’s Wonder for making it a good day, and to East Kent Morris and Motley Morris for supporting the event.
Saturday 5th September
The Wedding of Simon & Samantha and The Chequers at High Halden
A very busy and delightful Saturday all-round. Firstly, we were proud and honoured to dance at the
Woodchurch wedding of Simon and Samantha. Paytone delivered the bride to the church in his wonderful vintage car after a stylish drive around the village. Then, after the ceremony at All Saints Church, we provided a traditional Morris Arch for the bride and groom to walk beneath. Whilst the photographs were being taken, we performed a Postman’s Knock and Getting Upstairs for the assembled guests before making our way to the Reception. The Reception, along the Woodchurch Road, was a magnificent occasion within a marquee and we were delighted to entertain the guests as they arrived with a Vandals, the traditional Valentine which included Bride and Groom, a Trunckles and an Upton Stick Dance. At the wedding were Geoff, Paytone, Chris, Robin, Richard, Mike, Terry, Pete and Dave. A big thank you to everyone for looking after us so well.
Straight after the wedding we went on to The Chequers at High Halden. Although an unscheduled stand, this was in fact a lovely early evening stand. The new Landlord and Landlady of The Chequers had put on a Music Festival and bands of different types were playing throughout the day. After discovering earlier in the morning that a break in the proceedings was to take place at 6pm, we were delighted to offer our services and performed in front of a large audience in the very large beer garden at the pub. We managed to entice the Landlady and another customer at the pub into the Valentine, as well as two gentlemen spectators into the Constant Billy. Skirmish, Balance The Straw and Shepherds Hay were also performed before we took eight or so spectators around the garden in the final Bonny Green. There was even time for an open-air chorus of ‘Goodbyee’.
A big thank you to everyone at The Chequers for looking after us so well, and we hope to add the pub to our programme for 2010.
Thursday 3rd September 2009
Evening with Hartley Morris Men at Hollingbourne
Our long association with Hartley Morris Men continued with a walking tour of Hollingbourne as their guests. On a damp and blustery evening, with the light now diminishing earlier as Autumn draws nearer, we visited The Sugar Loaf and The Windmill and danced alternatively with our hosts. A big thank you to Hartley for their company and hospitality.
Sunday 23rd August 2009
The Wittersham Beer Festival at The Swan
The Swan Beer Festivals are always one of our favourite stands and coupled with some baking hot weather this stand was up there amongst the best. There were plenty of visitors in the beer garden and Ray had laid on some wonderful real ales and a hog roast. We had Geoff, Mike, Terry, Richard, Dave, Keefe, Robin and Pete, and Brian, Robin and Lisa also joined us in dancing and playing. Colin was Morris Crier. In glorious sunshine a packed pub garden saw us dance the Postman’s Knock, Trunckles, Balance the Straw, Constant Billy with two excellent volunteers, Valentine with a lovely local girl, Constant Billy with logs, Upton, Vandals, Jockey and of course the traditional final dance Bonny Green with plenty of volunteer dancers! After a short break, we then entertained with a mixed repertoire including Lisa’s very popular “Dancing with Men” and Brian’s “Hard Times of Old England”. We warmed the audience up nicely for Pass the Cat, who had their full band performing from 4pm. A glorious day at The Swan which all admitted had been a fun and very successful stand.
Saturday 15th August 2009
The Hangar Dance
As our season turns the corner and starts to head towards completion, we often find that the Pub Stands make way for special events, fetes and festivals. At the recent Jig For Victory event we were invited by Kent Lindy Hoppers to dance at the Hangar Dance at the airfield which we were delighted to do. There were a host of old aircraft and vehicles, many visitors dressed in WWII uniform and costume and no effort had been spared to make the all day event as authentic-a-return to wartime as possible. We danced in the afternoon as the event was gathering pace. Six dancers – Geoff, Chris, Mike, Pete (who is back safely from hols!), Terry and Dave. Paytone played and Colin was Morris Crier and we had Samuel on sticks. We performed Skirmish, Banks of the Dee, Young Collins, Valentine – for which we were joined by Dr Margaret from Cambridge who looked wonderful in her outfit, Constant Billy where we were joined by ‘Viv The Spiv’ and a colleague, and finally a Bonny Green which many joined in. We were very well looked after by the organisers, the sun shone, and the event turned out to be a great success.
Sunday 9th August 2009
Day at Broadstairs
With Richard and Robin down at the Folk Festival at Broadstairs for the week, Geoff, Chris, Terry, Mike, Dave and Paytone teamed up with them on the Sunday for what turned out to be a very enjoyable day by the sea in the very warm sun. After the bus from the Bonny Cravat to the station, it was the fifty minute or so train journey to the coast during which we entertained some travellers from Barcelona with some singing. At Broadstairs, we danced at the War Memorial with a Trunckles (thus ensuring the sunshine), a Postman’s Knock and a Getting’ Upstairs. Then it was onto the busy seafront where we were also joined by Drakee. We performed to a good audience at The Albion, before moving onto The Nelson where we enjoyed some good ales. Then we moved onto one of our favourites, The Tartar Frigate by the jetty, where again we drew large audiences with a number of dances including a Valentine for a lady celebrating her birthday on one of the impromptu stalls which was very well received by all. After indulging in the traditional fish’n’chips by the sea it was back up to The Dickens where we verbally entertained some of the visitors with Drakee and Robin running through their ever increasing repertoire of jokes and one-liners. Late afternoon, it was back to the station and home to the village with some more wonderful memories of another fine day out with the Woodchurch Morris.
Monday 3rd August 2009
Dancing for Woodchurch Scouts & The Norwegian Visitors
We were invited by Julian to dance at the Community Centre for the final night of the visit of the Norwegian guests of Woodchurch Scouts. There was a roaring camp fire and a wonderful atmosphere and we were delighted to perform for our overseas visitors. Dancing perilously close to the fire we performed a Skirmish and Jockey, before we invited two Norwegian guests to have a go at Constant Billy and then two Norwegian ladies for Valentines. Julian looked after us wonderfully with food and drink and the Norwegian guests seemed genuinely pleased that we had come along. We were then invited to join in the singing around the camp fire which we really enjoyed – some good old Scout favourites like Ging Gang Guly and Campfire’s Burning. We ended with a “Goodbyee” but we hope to be able to do the same again for our 20th Anniversary year next year. Dancers were Geoff, Chris, Mike, Terry, Robin, Richard and Dave. Paytone played and Colin introduced us. På gjensyn snart!
Saturday 1st August 2009
The Squire’s Tour
When Woodchurch Morris Men first organised a summer Squire’s Tour, almost twenty years ago, many of those who boarded the coach this year with their children were children themselves. The day started well with the presentation of a cheque for £1408.80 to Denis Frain and the Royal British Legion, which was the amount raised by our Jig For Victory night in June at The Bonny Cravat. Then it was all on the coach for around 40 of us for the long awaited, resurrected Squire’s Tour. It was a bright sunny day as we came into Rye, and our first stop at The Ship Inn. We danced alongside the Ship and had a small but enthusiastic audience, plus of course the wives, children, family and friends of the Morris who had come along. Dancers on the day were Geoff, Richard, Chris, Mike, Terry, Robin, Dave and Brian and of course we had Colin our Crier and Paytone.It was here that Richard suffered an unfortunate accident during Vandals, but after some swiftly applied first aid he was fighting fit again. After about an hour of dancing at The Ship, we wandered back to the Coach Park at Rye Station, stopping off for a group shot outside The Cinque Ports. Then it was onto Greatstone and The Jolly Fisherman for lunch. We danced a number of well executed dances outside, and Helen finally made it to the centre of Valentine! We also grabbed a couple of the regulars for a Constant Billy and both did well and were good sports. After fish’n’chips, it was onto the beach for a game of rounders, as has been the tradition for almost 20 years. A mix of Morris Men, wives, families and children all participated and it was a very competitive game – and great fun too. After a couple of hours playing, sunning, eating and drinking on the sand, the rain finally came and it was back to the coach and onto the final stop, The Warren. Here, we danced in the pub garden and even got the landlady to take part in the Valentine. She was that impressed, she asked us to dance there in May next year! They looked after us with some beer and we ended the Squire’s Tour with a sing. Then it was back onto the coach with some tired children and happy adults. There is no doubt that the resurrected Squire’s Tour was a wonderful success!
Wednesday 29th July
The White Hart, Newenden
Of course, Wednesday night stands are far from the norm for us. However, having danced at the White Hart in years gone by, the pub were very keen to have us there to help them to celebrate the Runners-Up prize in this year’s CAMRA Best Pub Awards. We were so glad that we did – the pub laid on a splendid buffet with an array of various seafoods and meats, some splendid prize winning beer and above all, the packed pub gave us a fantastic reception all night. The weather was abysmal (heavy rain all evening) but as in previous stands this didn’t daunt us and we set aside the smallest of spaces in the Conservatory area to entertain with some precise indoor dancing including Young Collins, Postman’s Knock, Shepherd’s Hay and Getting Upstairs amongst others. Then we performed our WWII medley which everyone in the pub joined in. In all, a wonderful evening and it was plain to see why the White Hart had won the award.
Friday 24th and Saturday 25th July
The Royal Oak (Rye Foreign) and New Romney Fete
Two very different stands – The Royal Oak had invited us back to Rye Foreign after a very successful Mummers Play performance in January. Unfortunately, as seems to frequently have been the case this summer, Friday’s weather had been very poor all day with heavy rain most of the time in Woodchurch. So even though the evening itself was actually quite sunny, there’s no doubt that this affected the attendance at the pub. However, the audience that we did have was very appreciative and we made lots of new friends at the pub with some good dancing on the patio area (breaking-in our new collecting ‘pot’) and then went inside for a good two hours of singing which seemed to go down very well. Seven dancers in total (no Pete,Grahame or Keefe) plus Colin and PayTone. Dances included Skirmish, Constant Billy (with logs),Getting Upstairs and a Valentine which included Geoff’s sister-in-law.
On Saturday, we performed at the very large and well organised New Romney Fete. Six dancers performed in the parade along the High Street (as above but also without Mike) including an ambitious ‘on the move’ Trunckles. Then it was lunch in the Prince of Wales, where we were joined by Keefe, and where we performed a Highland Mary and Bluebells outside the pub, before returning to the fete arena at 1pm for four dances in front of a very large crowd on a beautiful sunny day. We had to dance directly after Pig Racing which was a difficult act to follow, and the commencing of our stand was delayed whilst numerous runaway pigs were rounded up! Skirmish, Shepherd’s Hay, Jockey and Bonny Green were all that was required but they were very well received by the audience and we were approached by yet another new pub to perhaps perform for them later this year or next.
Friday 17th July 2009
The Bell Inn, Ivychurch
Despite the weather being unsettled throughout the day, we were delighted that a good crowd had gathered to watch us dance at another of our favourite stands, the Bell Inn at Ivychurch. We had a full compliment of dancers bar Grahame, who is injured, and the side performed a good mix of dances/styles including Young Collins, Trunckles, Postman’s Knock, an excellent Vandals and the traditional final dance – The Bonny Green in which we were joined by some of the audience. Although the sky was overcast and rain looked constantly imminent, it infact held off until the dancing had finished. We were extremely well looked after by The Bell and we were very happy to continue the entertainment with a sing. Richard did an excellent recount of “Sam’s Musket” amongst others, Colin did a number of old favourites as did Geoff. Dave trialled two “new” songs, an adapted version of Hard Times of Old England, and Threshing Machine. Terry’s “I’m Henry VIII I Am” as always went down well. We were delighted to be joined once again by Gary, who accompanied Paytone with the music and entertained everybody after the dancing with some solo numbers.
Saturday 11th July 2009
Shep’s Tour with Hartley Morris
We were delighted to be invited by Hartley Morris Men onto their annual Shep’s Tour and had decided a while back to attend this event as a full side, which we did. Based at The Gate Inn in Marshside, Robin, Paytone and Richard who had started the tour on Friday were joined by Terry, Dave, Geoff, Colin and Pete on Saturday morning meaning that we were able to dance alternately with Hartley right through the day, along with the two guests from Victory Morris. Travelling in an open topped Routemaster bus, the tour took us from Marshside to Herne Bay and then later onto Broadstairs. Despite the changeable weather, it was great fun and we were very well looked after by our hosts all through the day. Terry will particularly remember the day by his hat blowing off from the open top bus on the blustery and wet way to Broadstairs and disappearing down the Thanet Way near the airport, only to be found several hours later safe and intact on the return journey after being spotted by the very eagle eyed driver! At The Neptune, Geoff sustained a head injury during a particular tight stick dance in the beer garden, but was ok. At the Neptune, Hartley showed their remarkable singing talent with a lengthy repertoire. Excellent food was provided both at The Neptune and at The Gate Inn. A big thank you to Hartley Morris for looking after us so well and to honorary Woodchurch Morrisman Drakee and our own Paytone for organising the event so well.
Saturday 4th July 2009
Mark and Jules Wedding
We were delighted to perform at the son and daughter-in-law’s wedding of one of our longest serving members, Mike Headling. The weather stayed perfect for the occasion and the wonderful setting of Elvey Hall in Egerton and this was the perfect stage for some well executed fertility dances and dances to suit this happy occasion. The side began with a Trunckles, just to make sure the weather stayed nice (which it did) and then continued with an eight man Skirmish. After that it was the turn of the Bride and Groom to join in with Valentines, before two unsuspecting but very adept volunteers joined in Constant Billy. Finally, father-of-the-groom Mike Hedling led the Upton which was a fitting end to the stand for a lovely occasion. Here’s to the Bride and Groom and a big thanks to Mike and Helen for looking after us so very well.
Friday 3rd July 2009
The British Lion, Folkestone
Always one of our favourite stands, the British Lion in Folkestone didn ’t let us down this year with a wonderful crowd enjoying a wonderful summer’s evening. It had been a very hot week with temperatures over 30 degrees in many places but Friday night was much more comfortable. The venue is a wonderful ‘amphitheatre’ and many had come to watch as well as those watching from the windows of the houses in the cul-de-sac. Julian from The Woodchurch Scouts took us down in the mini-bus and when we arrived many of the regulars had already claimed their places outside to watch the dancing. We started with a Postman’s Knock and then went into a varied array of different dances including Trunckles, Shepherds Hay, Upton and Old Twanger. Chris, who was injured, helped Dave with the collection and over £90 was raised. We had virtually a full side with just Pete away and a guest visit from Drakee. After the dancing, we then went into our brand new Wartime Medley which got the whole pub behind us singing, and by the end of the evening everyone agreed that it had been a wonderful stand. The British Lion looked after us superbly with some excellent beer and buffet. We are already looking forward to our 20th Anniversary visit.
Friday 26th June 2009
Woodchurch Jig For Victory
When we first set up this stand, we were planning an hour of dancing and maybe a sing to the Bonny Cravat regulars with a quick hat round for a collection, which may have reached twenty pounds if fortunate, to support Denis Frain in his arduous 5-dayPyrenees trek along the ‘Freedom Trail’ for the Royal British Legion. However, this event not only caught the mood of the Kent business fraternity who showered the event with over 20 fabulous raffle prizes, but also the villagers of Woodchurch, who came to the event in their hundreds for an evening the likes of which some present on the night said had not been seen in the village for many, many years. The evening began with a meal for Denis Frain and his honoured guests, which had been sponsored by Estate Agent of the Year 2008, Sealeys from Gravesend. This was a wonderful act of kindness as the business does not touch Ashford or the surrounding areas and yet Managing Director Mike Sears and his wife Laura not only paid for the meal but also attended as well. Then it was the hosts, Woodchurch Morris Men who commenced the entertainment on a beautiful summer's evening with a wonderfully varied selection of dancing which was watched by an incredible crowd both from the village and beyond that had gathered in the pub garden to watch the proceedings. Woodchurch Morris Men were joined by Oojah Kappivvy Ladies Morris from Hastings. A smaller side in numbers to the men’s side, but nevertheless a very entertaining set of dances and a good array of musicians. The Bar-B-Que organised by Landlords Geoff and Elaine was in full swing by this time and there was a tremendous community atmosphere as the villagers got whole heartedly into the event, spilling out some twenty deep in the beer-garden.
After an hour of traditional Morris dancing and music, including an appearance by Woodchurch Morris’ very own Hengist the Horse, a swift break was followed by the rousing communal singing of a twenty-five minute medley of wartime-era songs. The plan had been to sing inside the pub, but the truth was that the crowd had become simply too big for this and thus an ‘al-fresco’ singing session, with song sheets provided for the audience, was hastily arranged in the centre of the garden. At 10pm, the Grand Raffle took place, drawn by Jan Francis, and at 10.30pm the Silent Auction prize of a flight in a Mustang Aircraft kindly donated by Rob Davies was brought to an end by Squire Geoff Smith and was won by Laura Sears for £450 which all went towards the charity total. Finally, it was the turn of top folk band/entertainers Crooked Style, who had agreed to play free of charge for the night, to allow the audience to take their turn in ‘jigging for victory’ with a marvellous selection of classic folk, humorous numbers and expert music.
The event will have raised over £1000 for the Royal British Legion, which will be presented to Denis Frain upon his return from the Pyrenees, but equally importantly it showed an incredible community spirit still exists amongst the villagers of Woodchurch. It was ‘wartime spirit’ rekindled in all of its glory. The numbers seen at the event were totally unexpected but everyone received the event tremendously and, who knows, perhaps this won’t be the last big village get-together organised by Woodchurch Morris Men.
One last poignant piece – Woodchurch Morris Men had placed recruitment leaflets around the pub saying that the side could fold unless new volunteers came forward to learn the dancing now, and help to entertain and raise funds for charity in the future. The piece ended – “This is a long-standing tradition of England – Please don’t let it die.” After Friday, many people in the village of Woodchurch must surely be thinking the same thing.
Saturday 20th June 2009
Wittersham Fete & Private Pagan Party
One year ago today Woodchurch Morris Men were becoming Tug of War Champions at the Wittersham Fete. This year, such extreme exertions were not required, but the side put on two good performances at the annual stand at Wittersham. With a couple of hours between stands, much concentration was needed but on a warm but overcast day, we came through with flying colours. A short three-dance stand first, including an 8 man Skirmish, a Trunckles (thus ensuring that the rain kept away) and a Vandals, with young Sam Comley holding the microphone steadfastly so that PayTones melodic masterpieces could be heard in every corner of the grounds. As always there were some good ales at the beer tent which were thoroughly enjoyed, until 4pm when it was time to dance again. A longer stand this time, which included an Upton and Valentine, which was well received and then finally a Bonny Green that was joined by the three lovely ladies from the Cinque Ports Lindy Hoppers who were also part of the entertainment at this extremely well organised event. As always a very enjoyable stand.
Then it was the short journey to Kingsnorth for a private Pagan party celebrating the Midsummer at which we were superbly looked after both with fine food, wonderful ale and lovely company. We entertained with a 6 man Skirmish, a Trunckles and managed to get six ladies up for an unusual ‘audience participation’ Shepherd’s Hay and a Valentines. A long day but two very different stands with the rain staying off for the duration. Good old Trunckles.
Saturday 13th June 2009
Kentish Cornucopia, Saltwood
All of the side agreed that this was a lovely stand. It was a first for the side, dancing in Saltwood, near Hythe,and by the end we all said that we hoped it would not be the last. The Castle Hotel in Saltwood is a very quaint village pub and the landlady and staff looked after us superbly with some very nice ales on tap. Upon arrival, the pub was quite empty. However, we had been advertised to dance at 2pm and at 3pm and sure enough,by the time The Squire announced that it was time to commence dancing, a very good audience had gravitated to the small but very well kept green and the warm June sunshine upon this very typically English village scene made for a good afternoon. Six dances in the first half – including Vandals and Trunckles and during this time Dave and Terry – who celebrated his 69th birthday and was presented with a lovely cake to celebrate – made a very good collection which all went towards the restoration fund for Saltwood church’s East Window.
A swift break for refreshment and general chatter with the audience, and then Part 2 which included a Jockey, a very ambitious ‘double Valentine’ with two very attractive local ladies taking part, and ending as usual with a Bonny Green in which the audience were invited to join and one or two did. Another collection took place in the second half and all in all the window fund did very well. Hopefully this will not be the last time we visit the very pretty village of Saltwood.
Friday 5th June 2009
The Chequers at Challock
From tumultuous crowds in London last week, this wonderful 17th Century Pub in Challock proved a charming, welcoming yet sparsely populated venue for the side. After a very warm week weather-wise, Friday was not so pleasant and this probably was a factor. The small but very pleasant audience enjoyed a full set of dances including Vandals, Getting Upstairs and Trunckles. Inside, Brian and Lisa entertained musically before the traditional sing which whilst it was to a limited audience, was still well performed. A big thank you to the Landlord and barmaid, who kindly took part in the Valentine fertility dance.
Saturday 30th May 2009
Southwark Tour
For the second year in succession, blazing sunshine greeted the Morris Men on their annual trip to the capital, and the very busy Borough Market area in Southwark. Travelling up to London Bridge by train for a tour first suggested by Terry Roberts in 2008, the side arrived at around noon and wherever they went were the attention of some bemused but many greatly interested tourists from overseas and the UK alike. The Mudlark was the first port of call for dancing and a meeting point, with virtually a full side in attendance. The pub was a very good warm up for the huge crowds to come. From there, it was the short walk through Borough Market to The Southwark Tavern. This is a traditional market place pub which still opens for a few hours each morning solely for the market traders. It was the scene of Woodchurch’s now infamous You Tube appearance last year, and once again big crowds gathered around the dancing, which for the second successive year stopped traffic. Even a passing Police Car, which looked as if it could call a halt to the proceedings, simply stopped to watch the dancing for a while before moving on to perhaps more pressing matters. Vanessa, a young lady looking very attractive in pink, assisted with the Valentine and once again a perfectly co-ordinated Vandals was very well received by the cosmopolitan audience. Terry and Dave did very well with the Charity collection. Then it was across the road to The George Inn. One of the areas oldest pubs The George was first mentioned by Shaw in 1554 during the reign of Henry VIII. Destroyed by fire in 1670, it was rebuilt in the style that still exists today and is referred to in Charles Dickens’ ‘Little Dorrit’. It has the oldest surviving traditional galleried courtyard in London which was a good setting for dancing and again the audience was large and appreciative. There was even time for a version of The Eighteenth Day of June led by Richard high on the galleried balcony which overlooks the courtyard. During our stay here we bumped into some old Morris friends from Ravensbourne and many tourists, some of whom are pictured in the photo section, including two young Moldavian ladies who took a great interest in the dancing. Aptly, ‘Morris Mayhem’ was one of the guest ales. From The George Inn it was on to The Market Porter where the biggest crowds of the day, including the market traders, stopped to watch the side dance. The Market Porter is a proper ‘real ales’ pub with ales changing up to nine times a day! It was transformed into “The Third Handbook Emporium” for the Harry Potter film “The Prisoner of Azkaban”. At one stage the crowd was so sizeable and the interest from tourists so intense that it started to resemble the mania of a pop concert! Some good dances here – including the ever popular Upton – and the charity hat again was generously treated. There was some respite at The Old Thameside Inn, with many of the pub’s visitors turning their attentions to the goings on at Wembley as it was FA Cup Final day, and a smaller but never-the-less equally as interested audience watched the dancing in the shadow of The Golden Hinde – a full size replica of Drake’s ship docked at St Mary Overie Dock directly alongside the pub. Constant Billy (no sticks) and Greensleeves were just two of the dances achieved here, overlooking the River Thames which kept on rollin’, but said nothing. Finally, it was back to the Southwark Tavern where the barmaid, who had served us previously and on the return, made the mistake of telling us that it was her last day of employment there before returning to Yorkshire, which immediately led into an impromptu version of Ilkely Moor Bar Tat!! Other songs followed and these continued on the train during the journey home.
All in all a super day for the side – great weather – great crowds – good dancing – a good charity collection and some nice pubs too.
Friday 22nd May 2009
The Three Chimneys at Biddenden
The Woodchurch Morris were in fine form Dancing at The Three Chimneys in Biddenden. This is a fine example of an historic English pub and the side were greeted by a enthusiastic crowd as the late evening sun dappled the Garden's shade.
Dancing to a captive audience dining in the conservatory they provided a varied menu of Cotswold dances ringing out loud on the patio's pavement outside, starting with the stick -battling Skirmish, followed by the more gentle "Getting Upstairs” from Brackley.
A very attractive young lady visiting from Bulgaria volunteered to augment our Valentine dance, standing in the middle of our set while we danced around her and lifting her high in the air at the end. An experience she seemed to enjoy very much.
After a few more dances, the sunlight almost gone, we were obliged to retire to the beams of the public bar, where good ale was dispensed to refresh the men from their exertions. After which a good session of varied songs from all the men completed the evening until it came to a rather reluctant closing time and we headed home to our own lovely village for a well-deserved nightcap!
Friday 15th May 2009
The Star Inn at St Mary-In-The-Marsh
Unusually, inclement weather befell the Woodchurch Morris Men at The Star Inn, with heavy rain and strong winds blowing across the Romney Marshes, meaning that al fresco dancing was not on the agenda. However, the Woodchurch side are nothing if not adaptable, and a little bit of re-arranging of fixtures and fittings, aided and abetted by Landlord Brian, meant that a perfect – albeit rather low – indoor stage beneath the spotlights was set for the evening’s entertainment! An appreciative audience who had braved the conditions to get to the Star enjoyed an eclectic mix of dances, executed extremely well in the tightest of spaces. PayTone was joined by Gary and the two played harmoniously to accompany the dancing and then went on to perform into the evening, with Richard Fair providing suitable percussion, and the side interspersing with a variety of songs from their ever increasing repertoire. A very big thank you to all at The Star Inn for braving the weather, braving the singing and dancing, and very generously supporting the charity collection.
Friday 8th May 2009
The Flying Horse, Smarden
Poor weather in the morning, with rain and heavy wind, looked like it might put a dampener on the stand at The Flying Horse, Smarden. However, as so often the case, the sun made a timely evening appearance for the Morris and the pub was packed for the visit of both Woodchurch Morris and our very good friends from Rabble Morris, based near Maidstone. The mix of Cotswold and Border dancing complimented eachother wonderfully, with PayTone playing with aplomb and the Rabble musicians also on very good form. Mike (Pakistan), Keefe and Spikey (other engagements) missed the stand but 8 Woodchurch Morris Men good and true performed in a tight area extremely well including a perfectly executed Vandals. After, both sides sang inside the full pub which made for a superb evening. The Flying Horse very kindly provided beer and sandwiches and we are now very much looking forward to making this another popular annual stand.
Monday 4th May 2009
Sun Shines on the Six Bells
On Sunday 3rd May, the Morris Men performed on their own doorstep at the highly successful Six Bells Beer Festival. The weather had looked unpredictable in the morning but, right on cue at 2pm, the sun shone and the side performed to a packed beer garden. Kim and co at The Bells had put on some wonderful Ales and a lamb spit-roast and the weather made for a fine afternoon. Starting with a Flowing Bowl, the side then danced ‘Going Upstairs’ before getting two very worthy volunteers from the audience to join in with Constant Billy. A very generous collection was taken at this point which will go into the Charity Pot. Then it was the turn of a lady volunteer to stand amongst the fertility dance, Valentine. Finally, a well executed Shepherd’s Hay was followed by the traditional farewell dance, The Bonny Green. This dance was not only joined by Graeme who had had to miss the dancing through injury, but also by a young lady by the name of Erica and friends who had expressed a wish to join a Morris Side and have been pointed towards Ladies Sides Oojah Kappivvy and Rabble. After the dancing, it was into the marquee for some rousing songs which finished off a fine day. A big thank you to Kim and all at The Six Bells for their support. Photos...
Friday 1st May 2009
Woodchurch Morris’ May Day Merriment
As has been the custom for many years, the side danced this May Day on the Village Green at 7am, supported as always by over 40 local villagers who enjoyed some home made cider punch. A beautiful May morning, the side began their full day May Day programme with a wonderful Trunckles before leading straight into one of their most popular dances, the Postman’s Knock. Popular musician PayTone played with a glorious elegance and the side, with a full turnout of dancers, didn’t disappoint the onlookers. The procedure was halted just for a moment as Squire Geoff Smith announced that newest recruit, Dave Comley, was to receive his Rosettes and this was greeted with kind applause. After the Village Green it was up to The Bonny Cravat for a traditional Full English Breakfast which was very well received, before making the short journey across the road to entertain, as has been routine for many years, a full assembly at Woodchurch Primary School. The weather was so nice that assembly had been moved outside into the Playground, and the side entertained the children and teachers with a tuneful rendition of Hal and Tow before dancing the Skirmish and Jockey. Then, to much cheering and squeals from the children, Woodchurch Morris’ very own Hengist the Horse made his annual appearance. It was a delight to see the children and the adults thoroughly enjoying this traditional entertainment, and without a games consul in sight!
The school left satisfied, Woodchurch Morris then took the 40 or so minute train journey to the seaside town of Broadstairs on the East Kent coast. Many will know Broadstairs for the excellent Folk Week each August, and the glorious May Day weather meant that the crowds had come out in good number to soak up the first rays of summer sun. Woodchurch danced first to a small audience at The Lord Nelson Pub before moving onto The Neptunes Hall which saw a good crowd of both English and overseas tourist stop to watch as the side danced. Collecting for charity as they went, the hat was duly passed around and the on-lookers were pleased to support. Last year, local Hospice Demelza House and the Kent Air Ambulance enjoyed sizeable donations from Woodchurch Morris – something not lost upon a number of builders who were situated high above the dancers in Harbour Street and who very generously showered notes and coins from the rooftops in their appreciation of this little bit of tradition.
Onto the seafront itself, and the excellent Tartar Frigate. A Thorley Tavern pub, the Frigate serves some very good beers and is very much a focal point during Folk Week (should that be Folkal?). Situated opposite the Jetty it was a glorious stage to entertain infront of a very appreciative audience. A good session of dancing under what was now a very warm sun included a 12 man Valentine and a well executed Vandals. With hunger starting to kick-in, the side then began to make their way to their final destination in Broadstairs, the Wrotham Arms, but not before dancing on the Cliff Top to another good crowd outside of a couple of the towering Cliff Top hotels that overlook the sea.
The Wrotham Arms is a very ‘folk friendly’ Shepherd Neame pub just a couple of minutes from Viking Bay and this was a good location to cool down and eat, before saying goodbye to Broadstairs with a couple of dances outside.
A very busy May Day ended back at Woodchurch at The Six Bells – a venue at which the side were due to dance just two days later at the Six Bells Beer Festival. In short, a memorable May Day, some good ales, excellent music and dancing and a good collection for the charity pot. Now it’s full steam ahead for a very busy summer!!
27th April 2009
By George they did well
Woodchurch Morris Men ’s final appearance before the ‘official’ start of the Morris Season on 1 May looked sharper than ever as they helped bring The George at Bethersden’s Beer Festival to a close in Sunday’s finale. Dancing in a wonderfully varied selection of different traditions in front of a large appreciative audience, the side seem in fine shape for the summer season which commences with the traditional May Day outing on Friday. They will perform on The Green at Woodchurch at around 7am, before breakfasting locally and then entertaining a full assembly at Woodchurch School. After this, it’s onto Broadstairs for a day’s walkabout singing, dancing and entertaining. “The side have been keeping this tradition for twenty years now” enthused oldest member of the side Terry Roberts, “ when you have been dancing this long you begin to have a history and it is something of which we are justly proud”. One of the busiest summers in years then continues almost immediately as the side will perform at the very popular Six Bells Beer Festival in Woodchurch at Sunday Lunchtime. For more details about this years’ programme please call Dave Comley.
Woodchurch Morris Men bowled over by England cricket legend
England cricketing legend Graham Gooch OBE has added his support to Woodchurch Morris Men’s “Jig For Victory” night at The Bonny Cravat on 26thJune in support of Woodchurch villager Denis Frain’s 4-day Pyranees trek to raise money for The Royal British Legion. Former England Captain Gooch – who scored a world-record 333 in the 1999 Lord’s Test Match against India - has offered his support for the charity evening by donating an autographed copy of that historic scorecard plus a video of the highlights of the Test Series. Hastings based ladies - Morris side Oojah Kappivvy have also agreed to make a special guest appearance during the evening, which will include singing, dancing and a BBQ as well as the opportunity to try Morris dancing for the night for a charitable donation!! Raffle tickets will be on sale shortly at The Post Office at Woodchurch. Anyone wishing to support this event should call Dave Comley.