Formed by a group of English Electric engineers back in 1957, Stafford Morris (known originally as Stafford Morris Men), has been keeping a 500 year old tradition alive in the local community for almost seven decades.

More popular than ever, the Stafford Side (a name for a group of Morris dancers) frequently signs up new members.

During the summer months, the dancers regularly perform at events and venues in Staffordshire and beyond.

Stafford Nub News caught up with the Side before their performance at The Horse and Jockey in Penkridge on Monday (15 June).

We asked the dancers what it is they love about being part of Stafford Morris.

Deputy Squire, Kirsty said: "The whole thing is about smiling, loads of lovely friends, and getting out and about.

"I have never been to this pub before in my life but I'm here.

"It's really good exercise, really good for your bone density.

"It's aerobic, it's high impact, and it uses calories, so you can drink cider and beer."

Kirsty added that she has been a member for around seven years, joining not long after women were allowed to become part of Stafford Morris in 2019.

Stafford Squire, Andy said that as Morris is very "traditional" it took several years for the Side to become more inclusive.

He said: "During the war (First World War), the men went off to war, and the women Morris danced and kept the tradition alive.

"When the war ended, the men came back and threw the women out, which was terrible."

Andy told us that since women have been able to join, Stafford Morris has experienced a massive increase in membership and the Side has been given a new lease of life.

There are many different forms of Morris dancing however the Stafford group usually perform what is known as Cotswold Morris.

They enjoy attending folk festivals across the UK and meeting other dancers.

Kirsty said that as many other groups are familiar with the same dances, they have a "common language" and are able to perform together without much rehearsal.

Speaking about her experience, Morris dancer Marianne said: "I've been doing it for about three years.

"I just love doing it.

"If you see any pictures of me doing it, I'm just grinning the whole time

"I've made lots of friends.

"We have weekends away as well, so it's a social thing as well."

Marianne's husband David said: ""It is all about having fun.

"The dancing is great.

"It's a great bunch of people, so friendly, all very supportive of each other."

Morris originated from dancing performed by agricultural workers at village festivals and holidays meaning that it has a history of being accessible to ordinary people.

The group's youngest member is 19 with the oldest being 83.

When they aren't on the road, the group rehearses on Monday nights at North End Community Centre on Holmcroft Road.

Fancy joining Stafford Morris?

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