Morris dancers clog up London

Saddleworth Morris men dance across Tower Bridge

PROUD members of Saddleworth's legendary Morris Men went on a very merry dance when they visited London.

Because they broke with protocol and took a picture as they danced across iconic Tower Bridge.

Part of the side were dancing in the capital at the 355th meeting of Morris Ring member sides and friends, hosted by Ravensbourne Morris Men, celebrating their 70th anniversary.

And with their famed military precision, dressed in full kit, including their flower-decked hats and clogs covered in bells, the 16 Saddleworth lads gave tourists and passersby a treat.

Their current squire, Dave Biggs, pictured front right, lead the team with Ron Yates, the only founder member of the side still dancing, behind him.

Graham Wood, on the left of the picture, with Ron's son Dave Yates behind him were accompanied by Mark Atherton, Nigel Reynolds, Alex Barlow, Gordon Powrie and Conrad Nelson.

The picture, which will hold pride of place in the Morris Men's scrap book, was taken by Paul Hankinson, the side's foreman.

His father Richard, the former squire, was playing in the band with Adam Walker, Tim Walker, Carl Taylor, John Bradley and Eddie Worrall, the current squire of the Morris Ring organisation.

Said Paul: "I was leading the set across the bridge and I didn't miss a step mind! We have danced in London before but never across Tower Bridge. When I was told we were crossing the bridge I asked if we could dance across ­- we didn't walk, we danced, or processed, as we call it, across.

"It was an amazing experience none of us will forget," he added. "It was a once in a lifetime moment and we loved every moment of it, and it capped off a great day out."

The Morris Ring was formed more than 80 years ago to encourage the performance of the Morris, to maintain its traditions and preserve its history.

Currently, is an association of 150 Men's Morris, Sword and Mummers Clubs and teams.