Morris dancing is synonymous with the English way of country life up to the beginning of the 20^th century. During the First World War men joined up as ‘collectives' many of whom were members of village bands, teams and clubs which included Morris Dance sides.  Unfortunately this resulted in many of them being decimated resulting in a change of village life and customs.  We honour the sacrifices they made.

During the 1930's there was a revival of these traditions basically because the people of this country have always held true our individual identity and its eccentricities.

Again, the Second World War put an end to the continuance of traditional peacetime customs.  Men (and women) fought hard, and many sacrificed their lives, to retain the way of life, its traditions and customs to which they all felt dear; but, on return from conflict, men soon regrouped to celebrate the perseverance of our national identity.   I think it is fair to say that this also applied in all free nations throughout the world.

Next year, as we celebrate the 65^th anniversary of peace in Europe, there is perhaps an added opportunity to remember that one of the reasons why so many fought was to maintain the freedom to retain their national identity with all its associated customs and individuality