Colourful morris men set to arrive

Photo: Paul Sterritt

Saddleworth’s Rushcart parade.

SADDLEWORTH villages are bracing themselves for the colourful arrival of the community's famous morris men this weekend.

Crowds will be captivated by the compelling sounds of bells and clogs as Saddleworth Morris Men present a magical mosaic of music and dance at their annual Rushcart Festival.

Police cutbacks and budget constraints mean the morris men have to employ to direct traffic and supervise road closures for the dancers.

The Rushcart, standing about 14ft high, is traditionally built of moorland rushes and weighs around two tonnes.

A 'jockey,' one of the morris side, sits on top and the cart is pulled round the villages.

Morris men from across Britain join the two-day festivities which begin on Saturday in Uppermill and end after the Rushcart service and celebrations on Sunday afternoon.

The schedule timings are approximate due to traffic and weather:

TOMORROW

10am: The Square, Uppermill

10.45am: Road End Greenfield

Noon - 1.30pm: Dancing in museum car park Uppermill, library gardens and King George V playing fields.

2.15-3.45pm: Delph

4.15pm: The Square, Dobcross

5.30pm: The Navigation, Dobcross

6pm: Uppermill

SUNDAY

10am: The Square, Uppermill

11am: St Chads Church, Rushcart service

Noon: The Cross Keys and Church Inn. Dancing, gurning and worst singer competition.

To find more about Saddleworth Morris Men find their website: www.saddle worthmorrismen.co.uk.