WESSEX Morris Men will not be dancing on Boxing Day in Cerne Abbas due to the COVID pandemic.
This is the first time the popular event – which features traditional English Morris dancing and a seasonable mumming play – has been called off.
But the resilient dancers from Dorset’s longest-running Morris side are determined to return, hopefully in the spring, to entertain in villages and towns across Dorset and further afield, while following official rules and regulations.
“We have been practising outdoors, strictly adhering to the Rule of Six, during lockdown, but we are looking forward to the day when our entire team can again dance to entertain people, when it is safe for everyone, said the team’s Squire David Pritchard.
“Unfortunately we have no option but to cancel our Christmas party and our Boxing Day performance in Cerne Abbas this year. We usually have a large audience for Boxing Day and we hope normal service can resume in 2021.
“It is pretty cold practicing outside at this time of year, so we are still looking for a covered outdoor venue where we can maintain social distancing. If anyone can help, please contact Mike Phelan via email squire@wessexmorrismen.co.uk ”
