The Newsletter No. 40 August - September 2005

Hello,

Some administration to start with:

� Side Contact Details. I broke with tradition with my first Newsletter and emailed it to all Bagmen and other contacts. I have not repeated the experiment with this edition as quite a few people contacted me to object at the download time. Rather more will not have received it as the email address I have in the directory is incorrect. Thus I am starting this Newsletter with a request that you re-submit your contact information even if you think that I have got it right! You can either use the form included at the end of this Newsletter or, preferably, email.

� Snail Mail. We have experienced a few problems with the Royal Mail being very precise about the weight of letters � quite a few Bagmen (including Mike Wilson-Jones of Westminster MM) have had to fork out �1.18 to retrieve the latest batch of Ring Circulars from their local Sorting Office. The weight of the package was 202 grams and the Royal Mail has charged for �over 200 grams� @ 71p. There was only 53p worth of stamps on the envelope (the 150-200 gram rate is 58p for second class), and you had to pay the �1 admin charge as well as the excess postage. Please let Harry know if you were surcharged as this might not be our fault!

� The Circular. Harry asks that if your side didn't receive your copies of the Circular to email him. Also an errata: With reference to the Kennedy Memorial fund (on back page of the Circular) � the closing date is 28th February 2006, not 31^st.

� Newsletter by email. Some Bagmen have asked that I send them an electronic copy so that they can electronically pass them on to the members of their side but as I have already said there are others whose mail system cannot cope with the size of the documents. To try to please everyone(!) and possibly save some money (that will please the BFB) when you confirm or let me have your up-to-date contact details you can tell me whether you want just a printed copy, just an electronic version, or both!

� Ring Directory The usual up-dates for the current Ring Directory are included towards the end of this Newsletter. I have already asked for a general confirmation of all contact details but I also need to ask whether your website up-to date? To further annoy the technophobes "Are you up to date on Side -finder?"

� Invitations / Visits.

� I have not been able to visit the same number of sides as John Frearson as my job is rather different and I would like to apologise to those sides whose invitations I have had to decline. The Durham Rams and St Albans Ring Meetings were both thoroughly enjoyable events as was the Bromyard Festival, which I attended with Leicester MM. There is no doubt that such events are made by the people � the hard-working organisers, follow visitors and the punters. Overall I had a good Summer.

� Over the past decade or so, out of the kindness of your hearts, many sides have invited Ring Officers to attend their various events as their guests. The additional expenses in terms of travel costs have been borne by the Ring Officer, combined with a work-related visit or reimbursed at a minimal level by the Ring. I raise this because in the current economic climate every aspect of Ring expenditure � including Officers Expenses - has to be seriously examined. I fear that if we are to keep out subscription rates at a reasonable level that sides inviting Ring Officers to their event might consider proffering a contribution towards travel costs. This is a topic that you might like to raise at the ARM.

� Elections. John Davies has informed me that he will be standing down as Area Rep for the West Midlands at the ARM in March 2006. Men of the area � are you the man to succeed?

� Recruiting. A couple of thoughts as to how to go about it:

Idea 1:

Final fling for Morris men Published on 08/09/2005 North-West Evening Mail

The threat of extinction is looming over a unique South Lakeland species. Clad in red and white, this rare breed grace our market squares every year from May to September.
Always a jolly sight, as much a part of our landscape as the winter snows on Black Combe, the Furness Morris Men are facing extinction because of a decline in new members.
Morris dancer of 40 years, John Metcalfe said: �We are desperate for new members. If we don�t get new members it will die out.�
Although the tradition of Morris dancing dates back to the 1400s, the Furness Morris Men started in 1963. The men wear white trousers, red baldricks � which are strips of cloth which cross over the chest and back � green cummerbunds and red waistcoats, which bear the crozier, or shepherd�s cross, of the Abbott of Furness. Their waistcoats each feature a unique embroidered picture on the back, which relates to South Lakeland. Founder member Bruce Wilson, of Swarthmoor, is, at 80 years old, a father figure to the current generation.
But with only 12 members, eight active dancers, and six needed for every performance � the future of Furness Morris Men looks bleak.

Idea 2:

This recently appeared on the Morris Dance Discussion Site

�It seems to be generally accepted that the best way to recruit people is to be seen performing. Unfortunately, I am wanting to start a new team from scratch and therefore have nothing to show. Has anybody got any advice for recruiting for a new team etc��.�

This led to a further discussion concerning Child Protection. Please be aware of the issues raised if you have youngsters in your side � especially if one or both of their parents are not involved. All organisations are, by law, required to have a "child protection policy" if they have any membership below the age of majority. I recommend to you the very useful guidance document produced by the Morris Federation and included in the last Newsletter � please contact me if you require a copy.

On this question one wag opined: �We have a child protection policy and it includes ��. don't use language or behaviour that might be considered inappropriate for the age group.� Considering the language one hears from children on the busses and tubes, I would be hard pressed to use language that they, obviously, consider appropriate.�

J By the way -if you do in fact have the answer to recruitment please share it! Bagman

� Events Calendar?

In the year before his retirement John Frearson attempted to collate a diary of all the events the member sides of the three organisations were regularly involved with � as a source of evidence so we could advise the Government about the effects of their legislation.

John attempted to estimate what we all do so as to be able to estimate how many events are "at risk". He was particularly interested in the traditional - but not strictly Morris DANCE things that you may also do - these may not be covered by our Licensing exemption. So he asked particularly about Mumming - skipping - apple howling - conkers - carols - wassailing - other traditional dance - egg and cheese bowling and anything else - however "marginal". The obvious aim being to help safeguard all traditional events we may have under our umbrellas.

The exercise raised expectations amongst the membership of the three organisations as I am now being contacted by sides who are planning an event, be it a feast, a Day of Dance or whatever, trying to check whether their chosen date clashed with anything else. Currently I do not have this information but I am willing to compile a database if you are willing to share your information with me!

My suggestion is that if you have an event � be it dancing on May Day at dawn, a Day of Dance or a Feast � let me have the information and I will include it on a central list. Inclusion will not imply that it is a public event (unless you specifically request that this is the case and want it so publicised) simply that this is what you plan / hope to organise or take part in on that date. This will allow sides to make informed decisions when planning events for themselves.

I do not have the time to trawl though old information so if you want your feast or weekend of dance included in this database you will need to add it to the Ring Contact proforma and return it to me!

Personnel news

Barbara Sunderland, 76-year-old widow of Morris Sunderland, Past Squire of the Ring, has today returned home after 9 weeks in hospital, following surgery on blocked veins in both legs, complicated by MRSA. Although on crutches or in a wheelchair at present, she expects to be fully mobile soon, and will inevitably carry on with her tireless campaign against nuclear weapons, during which she has several times been arrested!

Barbara retains a strong interest in the Morris world, and is an Honorary Member of Letchworth, the club Morris attended before his death. She would welcome any news or just cards from anyone in the Morris world. Email Ring Bagman for contact details

Alan Creamer Letchworth MM

Morris was the guiding light of the Fools & Animals Unconvention and Barbara remains a very supportive influence - a lovely lady.

Jim Jones, Master three-hole pipe maker, died on Monday 1st August2005 in the Forest of Dean in his 92^nd year.

The funeral was held on Thursday 11^th August at the Yew Tree Crematorium and it was a celebration of his long and busy life. The Chapel was filled with family and friends including the Forest of Dean Morrismen who proceeded the coffin with the Winster Processional.

Over the years Jim made hundreds of pipes and they have gone all over the world. He will be missed as a friend, teacher and inspiration. Mike Chandler

Jim made the St Albans beast - Harry the Hart (from Hartfordshire) - in the 1950s

Brian Bending St Albans Morris Men

Saddleworth Rushcart

Members of Jockey Morris who visited the Saddleworth Rushcart were very moved by Paul Hankinson (this year's Rushcart Jockey)'s tribute to our dear friend, the late Roy Yarnell, on the cart banner. Jockey, and a lot of other people, would like to publicly offer their thanks and appreciation to Paul. His efforts were greatly appreciated by not only Jockey, but all Morrismen present who had known Roy. Steve Holder Jockey Morris

Stolen! Bad news, on 27^th September, in Falmouth Pete Grassby�s (Coventry MM and Melodeon Repairer) van was broken into and his Cairdin (a 12-bass 2 1/2 row in D/G, walnut finish and in a black and silver hard case) and a customer�s pokerwork were taken. Reward for information etc. Pete Grassby.024-76336740.

It is always very sad when things like this happen � please keep your eyes & ears open.

Other Issues / Topics / News

Is Sword Morris?

There has been a lot of debate amongst the chattering classes on the Morris Dance Discussion List mentioned earlier over this question � odd in the light of the recent Licensing issues. Barry Care (Moulton Morris, Past Squire of the Morris Ring, etc.) summed it up very neatly:

�I have resisted getting involved (in this debate) as a great deal of it is pure twaddle. (There) is a vast quantity of rubbish being trotted out over "Sword" and "Morris". At the risk of adding to it I would suggest that the debate so far merely indicates a good deal of rather shallow thought and a lack of understanding that the term 'Morris' should be used to include a wider set of customs than Cotswold Dancing.

On the several references about The Morris Federation and also The Morris Ring made by various contributors, I would just point out that The Morris Ring is certainly not, nor ever has been a controlling body over member clubs. It is very much a grouping of independent Morris clubs, and those clubs elect the Ring officers to provide services such as publications, insurance, information, etc., that individual clubs would find hard to service themselves. Even Ring Meetings are organised by individual clubs, not by some mythical controlling elite as some seem to believe. It is there to serve the member clubs.

I know little of the Federation but have had contacts with its officers at various times and can scarcely believe it would be much different. Can we therefore have less political posturing on this list and talk a bit more about dancing, and maintaining the heritage of Morris (yes I include Sword et al in that). Barry Care. Moulton Morris

A sword team ran a Ring Meeting this year. I am pretty sure our "contact" with Sword teams is good - It's only that there are MORE Cotswold teams. Bob Cross. Squire of the Ring

Greetings from the Jubilee Morris Men, South Africa!

The BBC2 historical epic �To the Ends of the Earth�. Most of this was filmed in South Africa. One of the scenes required a team of Morris Dancers. As the only side in South Africa, we got the part!

The dance is one we choreographed ourselves, to the Fieldtown tradition. It is therefore one of the two or three which are unique to the Jubilee Morris Men.

When you pass comment on the standard of the dancing � please bear in mind that we were required to wear 18^th century clogs and dance on a wet and slippery ship�s deck!

Submitted by Paul Browning Crier of Jubilee Morris Men

Cam Valley MM at the Glastonbury Music Festival

Cam Valley MM danced at the Glastonbury Music Festival - we believe this is a first for a Ring Side. They also got a mention on Radio Five Live (approx 12.10am Sunday night/Monday morning), when the station interviewed Festival leavers. The gist of which, is as follows:

Reporter: What did you think of this year�s festival?

Festival Leaver: My husband and I have been to many, but this was the best yet.

Reporter: What was your highlight?

Festival Leaver: Coldplay were excellent.

Reporter: What was your most memorable moment?

Festival Leaver: Watching a naked woman dance with some Morrismen in the Greenpeace field on Sunday afternoon.

Submitted by Brian Griffiths... Bag Man of Cam Valley Morris Men

Sidmouth

As a regular attendee of Sidmouth for many years I was sorry that due to a clash with St Albans Ring Meeting [an excellent event as widely reported elsewhere]I had to miss it this year. I hear that the John Gasson Jig Competition was held as usual and that the Single Jig Class was won by Mikey Radford and the Double Jig Class and the Audience Appeal class were both won by Barry Honeysett and his son Jack, both of Great Western Morris.

The Competition is held annually in memory of John Gasson who danced with the Seven Champions and Mr Jorrocks. He was an excellent jig dancer who was killed on his way to Sidmouth in 1987.

Open Question � Is no answers Good News � or indifference?

In the last Newsletter, in response to Neil Fretwell of Harthill�s question as to whether many clubs were suffering any 'knock on' effect of the music bill I heard nothing. I hope that this is because there have been no ramifications but if you have experienced any problems please let Ring Officers have details as a matter of urgency.

Manchester MM celebrated 50 years of dancing in clogs on Saturday 3rd September 2005.
After dancing only Cotswold for our first 20 years, Manchester MM revived the dances from towns east of Manchester in the early/mid 1950's. In 1955, Manchester MM revived the dance from Mossley, and on 3rd September that year we first wore clogs for the North-West dances, when we danced the newly revived Mossley dance in Mossley itself. The local paper reported at the time that it was "greatly enjoyed ... especially by Fred Booth, an old member of the Mossley Morris Dancers ... who hopes that lads and young men will start the dance again, in Mossley, its place of origin." This hope was fulfilled over 20 years ago when the Mossley MM were founded. To mark the anniversary, we were in Mossley on 3rd September 2005, dancing the local dances with the Mossley MM, who organised an excellent day's tour of the town. Bob Cross (Squire of the Ring), Duncan Broomhead (NW Area Rep.), the Mayor of Mossley and descendants of Morris dancers from over 100 years earlier were also present.

MMM also danced in the Herbstauftakt (Autumn Festival) in Leipzig, Germany on 17th September.
The festival features a different country each year, and this year "Discover Britain" featured a Beatles tribute band, a Steel Band (from Notting Hill), a Scottish Bagpipe band (all from Berlin!) and Manchester MM representing traditional music and dance.

Keith Ashman Bagman Manchester Morris Men

Black Book

The Black Book �ABC� files are now at http://www.themorrisring.org/More/Tunes/index.html

Thanks to Vaughan Hully for the vast amount of work that he has put into this project.

The whole revamped Morris Ring web site is worth a look if you have yet to go there.

John Maher Ring Overseas Bagman and Web Editor

Aldbury Morris Men

The Aldbury Morris Men were performing in Luton on 3rd Sept for a gathering of Veterans to celebrate 60 years after the end of the war. Amongst the be-medalled assembly there were various VIP's present including the High Sheriff , a brace of Chelsea Pensioners and a couple of Gurkas. One of our men (Rod Puddefoot) announced in a loud voice "Oh my God they have closed the bar" He was then somewhat distressed to notice that the Gentleman standing behind him wearing a purple shirt and dog collar was the Bishop of Bedford. The almighty's representative

smiled politely but refrained from any comment......perhaps he had been hoping for a drink as well.

Neil Freeman

RING PUBLICATIONS

We all need �copy� � we always appreciate articles, photo's etc.

Harry Stevenson: Editor of the Morris Circular

Contact him at:- Erin House,

59, Olivers Battery Road North,

Winchester Mobile 07775 785271

SO22 4JB. Tel: 01962 855911

Email Ring Bagman for contact details

Sean Goddard : Editor of the �Morris Dancer�.

Contact him at:- 142, Hollingbury Road,

Brighton

BN1 7JD Tel: 01273 559107

Email Ring Bagman for contact details

THE TREASURER�S RAMBLINGS

Please read and respond to the attached Insurance / Membership documents as soon as possible.

Steve Adamson BFB

Treasurer, The Morris Ring.

OVERSEAS TRAVEL

Greensleeves Morris Men visit the Toronto Morris Men.

At the end of July, a dozen men from Greensleeves Morris Men with various wives and offspring arrived for a return visit to the Toronto Morris Men. They were all accommodated in Brantford either by Robin Harrison � a member of both clubs � or in a nearby motel. The main performances were at the Mill Race Festival in Cambridge, Ontario, where the two sides were also joined by Orange Peel Border Morris from Orangeville, Ontario and Handsome Molly from Princeton, New Jersey. They were the first British and American teams to appear at the Festival. For the first time ever, Greensleeves received a spontaneous round of applause on completing the �Single Over� figure in their performance of a couple of figures from the North Skelton longsword dance.

On the (Canadian) Bank Holiday Monday the party visited Niagara Falls and then joined up again with Toronto Morris Men for some shows in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Leaving Brantford, Greenseleeves made their way to Orrillia, on the shores of Lake Couchiching, for a couple of days of shows on their own. These included a Summer Camp; a Hog Roast hosted by Bert Cleaver�s relatives; and a performance at the Stephen Leacock Museum. After the end of the formal tour, they scattered to the winds to return home or continue with family holidays in diverse parts of the country. A fuller report of this highly successful tour is being prepared for the Morris Circular.
Alan Chetwood Greensleeves Morris Men

ARCHIVE NEWS

John Frearson is now the Chairman of the Morris Ring Archive group. Well done John!

This group were spotted by Peter Copley (Stafford MM) at the Old Trafford Test Match. He commented: �I don't think that they represent reality, but at least they had come across the Morris.�

�While all England may be in the grip of 'Ashes fever', I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that to many Scots, cricket remains a curiosity; a mysterious Sassenach tradition akin to Morris dancing and Dandelion and Burdock.� Daily Telegraph ( Friday 19th August)

MORRIS RING - AND RING MEMBER - EVENTS

2006 ARM. Formal notification of this meeting:

3^rd- 5^th March 2006. Hosted by Chalice Morris Men. Booking form with next Newsletter.

Reminder: I need to have received nominations for Squire and any Area Reps. who are due for election; Motions, etc. by three months before the date of the ARM. Let me know if you want a Nomination Form or any further information.

2006 Ring Meetings

It has been a problematic Summer for those preparing for Ring Meetings next year. An application form is included at the back of the Newsletter � where you will see that after five meetings this year we are reduced to three. Early application is advised.

306 2^nd � 4^th June THAXTED RING MEETING - 200 plus men

The traditional annual meeting in Thaxted. Indoor and outdoor camping at locations around the town. Friday evening �pub� supper. Tours of the countryside around Thaxted on Saturday, with tea in Thaxted. Processions to a mass show before the Saturday Feast and a further mass show in the evening; the Horn Dance and then informal dancing in pub yards. On Sunday: procession to church and afterwards dancing outside the church. Anticipated cost of full Meeting: TBC [Alternative Saturday only option � without Feast also available].

307 14th - 16th July, GREENSLEEVES 80^th Anniversary Ring Meeting

Friday evening - Meet & Greet, Hot Supper from 7.30 till all guests arrived. Free beer in the hall throughout the weekend. Greensleeves do short show at 9pm preceded by The Rose Fieldtown danced round the oak tree planted on common in memory of Les Nichols. Then all sides to local pubs for singing and playing.

Saturday. Bus tours - usually vintage - around surrounding Bucks/ Herts towns /villages. Pub lunch. Early evening pub shows around Chipperfield. Feast in Village Hall circa 8.15 after sherry party reception for all including guests from the village.

Procession to open air church service on Sunday (inside if wet) followed by massed show. Then procession through village for another show at Windmill pub. Buffet lunch in pub garden (in hall if wet) Anticipated cost of full Meeting: �50 per man

308 21^st � 23^rd July NEW DATE 50^thMendip Anniversary Ring Meeting

Based in Weston-super-Mare accommodation will be indoor camping for a maximum of 120 men. Transport for Saturday tours will be by old fashioned double-decker buses.

Anticipated cost of full Meeting: �65 per man

Adderbury Club Day 2005

As a part of celebrating the 30th Anniversary since the revival of the Adderbury Morris in addition to the usual Adderbury Day of Dance held in April they decided to hold a "Club Day". The Adderbury Village Morris Men along with the Adderbury Morris Men invited sides that have had long association with both the Adderbury sides over the 30 years. The sides that accepted and appeared were Berkshire Bedlam, Bourne River, Bloxham, Ducklington, Kirtlington, Harberton Navy, Moulton, Rogue, Royal Oak, The Traditional Bampton Morris Dancers, and Windsor. It was a fantastic day all round. The weather and the overall standard of dancing was particularly good by all those sides performing and a great time was had by all. A special mention must go to Steve Adamson who was first to arrive at 8.30am. He set up the Morris Ring Shop on the village green and seemed to enjoy himself. It was great to meet him and have the presence of the Ring at what was our first venture of this kind in a very long time.

More details see:- www.adderburyvillagemorrismen.co.uk and go to Club Day 2005.

Submitted by Edd Frost Bagman of Adderbury Village Morris Men

Forthcoming events

� Final call for the Fools and Animals Unconvention, 21^st -23^rd October 2005 in Cromford, near Matlock, Derbyshire, and hosted by Ripley. This will again be open to the other Morris Organisations. Contact Rob Chisman, 01503 272250, Email Ring Bagman for other contact details

� Final call for the 18-30s extravaganza. �Arise, young �uns, shake off the yoke of geriatric oppression and advance, dancing and a�capering into the new (well, still under warranty) millennium! Yes, it is almost that time again, time for those of us under the 30-something barrier to come together as one and dance, dance, dance for the sheer joy of life and all things hop-based. For those of you who haven�t twigged yet, I can only be talking about the annual Morris 18-30�s extravaganza.

This year we head off to the far north, to the land where men are men and the pubs are welcoming, where the streets are sparkling and a Morris Man can be himself without fear of retaliation. I can only be talking about Leeds, jewel of the north and venue for this year�s do. It will take place on the 21^st-23^rd of October, at a cost of �25 (�20 unwaged) for the whole weekend. All dancers and musicians are welcome, no matter your level of experience.

The last three years have been great successes, and we are hoping to extend the run! If you wish to apply, there is more information at www.morris1830.org, or contact this year�s organiser and squire Alastair Hutchinson at( Email Ring Bagman for contact details.) Bagmen please pass this message onto any eligible members of your side, and everyone spread the word as we try to make this the best 1830s yet!� Submitted by Dan Corcoran

� Jigs Instructional 20^th-22^nd Jan. 2006 Note the date �I got it wrong in the last Newsletter

The Cotswold Morris Jig provides an opportunity for an individual performer to show his skills, whether by way of a change of emphasis, or expansion of style, without the constraints imposed by a team of dancers, but kept within the scope of the known authority, ie. not to 're-write' a tradition. As well as frequently being used in a ceremonial role to distinguish the solo dancer, the Jig is a valuable device for the Squire or Foreman of a club to present a varied and more interesting programme.

The Jigs Instructional endeavours to inspire the confidence and ability to dance Jigs by giving a good basic grounding in each tradition. There is a lot to cover so the pace is fairly quick and, while try to cater for different levels of ability and experience, it is unlikely that a beginner will derive much benefit from the weekend.

If you are interested please complete the Application form at the back of this Newsletter

� RAPPER SWORD INSTRUCTIONAL 17^th - 19^th March 2006

Due to unprecedented demand � that is lots of comments such as �Why don�t the Ring �..etc. � Stafford Morris Men are hosting a weekend of RAPPER SWORD INSTRUCTIONAL on March 17th - 19th 2006 at Wybunbury (pronounced Winbry), a village just outside Nantwich, in Cheshire, with little claim to fame except for; the only leaning tower outside Pisa, two of the finest pubs in the county, one of the few floating peat-bogs in the country and home of the Internationally acclaimed Annual Fig Pie Rolling competition.

Under the skilled tuition of Brain Padgett and Paul Wesson of Stockton Morris Men, (translators will be on hand), a limited number of men (probably no more than 25) will be introduced to just a few traditions of this charismatic Morris of the North East. (Rapper Swords will be provided).

Tuition will commence on the Friday evening and run thru� until Sunday lunch, with Saturday evening feast in full kit. Although some obvious benefits would accrue from sets of five from any one side, individuals will be encouraged to take part - overall numbers and beginners will however be limited.

Accommodation will be Indoor and outdoor camping 100 yards away chez John Colbert with shower and hot water. Alternative B&B available at local pub. Lunch and Feast Catering by local Pub. A snip at �49.50, (Deposit of �12 on application, balance before Feb 1st). Cheques to be made payable to Stafford Morris Men. Closing date for applications: Jan 5th

Further information: Alan Dandy (Event Bagman) Tel: 01952 810334 Email Ring Bagman for further ontact details If you are interested please complete the Application form at the back of this Newsletter

� Other Instructionals?

It is wonderful to be able to advertise this Rapper Instructional and I hope that it will inspire others to act. The Ring Officers are frequently asked �Why don�t you organise this�or that instructional?� The simple fact is that we can�t! We will do everything in our power to help and encourage you but we are only the figurehead(s) representing you the member sides. If you have an idea for an instructional we can provide notes of guidance (available from the Ring Bagman) and might be able to put you in touch with appropriate tutors but we are unable to undertake the actual organization of the event. We need individual or groups of sides to do that on behalf of the wider membership. Might that be you and your side?

OTHER EVENTS

Battle of Trafalgar There will be various celebrations of the 200^th Anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar on 22^nd October 2005. Please let us know what your side is doing � just in case we are asked.

"Next Foot Up" Long Distance Morris Dance

In 1599/1600 Will Kemp danced 150 miles from London to Norwich. In

1981, Jim Bartlett of Ravensbourne M.M. danced 202 miles from Orpington

to Worcester. On the 25^th anniversary of that feat, another Ravensbourne man will attempt to beat it by dancing 207 miles from Tunbridge Wells to Worcester, and by so doing, set an undisputed accredited distance record for an individual dancer.

The man who will attempt this feat is the appropriately-named Ben Dauncey. He hopes to set a record which will be duly accredited by Guinness World Records, but his primary object is to raise a large sum of money to be donated equally to The Multiple Sclerosis Society and The Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Ben would like the active participation of everyone who is involved in the Morris � his target is to raise �100,000 and he needs your support. You can download a sponsorship form from his web site, or you can make a donation on-line (which will also attract a contribution from the taxman).

Just as important, if anyone (either a complete side or an individual) would like to come and join him along the way � to cheer him as he passes or to dance along with him for a spell � you will be most welcome.

Details of the route, day by day, together with details of how to sponsor him can be found on Ben�s web site at www.nextfootup.com. Please help Ben to make this a memorable event.

Malc Ward (Ravensbourne)

Good luck Ben � the Ring Officers all wish you luck and are envious of your stamina. Bagman

Litchfield Ale 2006

Advance notice: Saturday 11th March 2006 Venue - Lichfield Guildhall Invites out � Dec. 2005 Chris Pattison

Midsummer Morris at Moira 23rd , 24th and 25th of June 2006- visit the Bakanalia website http://bakanalia.atspace.com/index.html for further details.

For Sale - hopefully to go to a Morris player.

Dave Race � a Morris man for 15years with the (now disbanded) Wyre Forest Morris Men has an immaculate Castagnari Lilly for sale. Unusual in that its maple coloured (very light) as well as all this there is the original duster and case and straps and a set of black buttons [Never fitted because I never worked up the nerve.]

Price: a paltry �800 or near offer. Email Ring Bagman for contact details

North Wood Morris Men

North Wood Morris Men are holding their Annual day of Dance on Saturday 20th May 2006. It will be located at Frylands Wood, on the southern borders of Croydon, & the tour will take in a selection of picturesque villages & pubs in the Surrey weald (predominantly outside the M25). Expressions of interest are welcomed, & further details will be sent to interested teams or individuals on request. Eddie Dunmore

LINKS WITH THE MORRIS ORGANISATIONS

In September I represented the Morris Ring at the Morris Federation AGM. Whilst everyone knows about the Insurance links it is in all of our interests to maintain harmonious working relations in other spheres. Representation at our respective Annual General Meetings is just another example of this co-operation. Prior to this meeting I received the following from John Bacon, immediate Past-President of the Morris Federation:

A thought for the future of Morris

I believe that we all care about the future of our rich heritage of traditional music and dance. So we should at least ensure that this is handed on to the next generation free of prejudice, which may have dogged the Morris throughout the 20^th century. But as we now know, there were social and political reasons for this but times change, and so must we if we are not to destroy what we have.

For a plant to grow it must be given the right environment to develop, flower and produce � and the same is true of music and dance.

As a member of a Morris Federation team, and a past President, I believe it is important that the three Morris organisations work together to ensure that the future is secure. One of my objectives while in office as President was to work with and to foster good and better relations between the Morris organisations.

During the last three to four years, joint ventures have been initiated and all have borne fruit, but it was only through the combined efforts of the three organisations that we achieved so much. We now have a joint Public Liability insurance policy that has brought us considerable economies; we worked closely together on the Licensing Act 2003 and achieved so much although we were all very disappointed not to receive blanket cover for our other associated activities. It was by combining the strengths of all three organisations (about 700 teams and 15,000 dancers) that this was achieved. We worked closely together on the Trafalgar Square project in November 2003 and more recently St George�s Day in Newcastle this year � and lastly the current Morris Futures Project. This hopefully will raise the image of Morris in our communities.

Though we all have slightly different objectives I believe that our principle one is to promote our traditional dance form and to enhance its image. We can only do this by working together and I hope that we shall continue to do so and have many more successes in the future.

John Bacon, immediate Past-President of the Morris Federation

CONCLUSION

While this Newsletter is my means of communicating Ring Business / information with you it could and perhaps should also be your means of communicating with other sides in the Morris Ring. As I said last time � this can only truly be a Newsletter if you provide me with news to include.

The next Newsletter should be produced towards the end of the year so please let me have some news.

Bagman

The Morris Ring

Remember: Unless you pass on the content of this Newsletter to the Men in your Side, the information stops with you. E-mailed versions of these Newsletters are available on request

THE MORRIS RING - JIGS INSTRUCTIONAL 2006

Location	Sutton Bonnington, Nottinghamshire
Dates	20 � 22^nd January 2006
Traditions	We aim to cover most of the jigs of the major traditions, plus a few lesser known.
Hosts	Dolphin Morris Men
Accommodation	Indoor camping (Village Hall).
Numbers	30 maximum
Cost	�40 per head

The Cotswold Morris Jig provides an opportunity for an individual performer to show his skills, whether by way of a change of emphasis, or expansion of style, without the constraints imposed by a team of dancers, but kept within the scope of the known authority, i.e. not to 're-write' a tradition. As well as frequently being used in a ceremonial role to distinguish the solo dancer, the Jig is a valuable device for the Squire or Foreman of a club to present a varied and more interesting programme.

Please return the attached slip with a cheque for the full amount

NOT LATER THAN 5^th DECEMBER 2005.

If you have any queries, please telephone Geoff Jerram on 01380-860280

THE MORRIS RING JIGS INSTRUCTIONAL 20^th � 22^nd January 2006

PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALS THROUGHOUT

CLUB NAME

BAGMAN/CORRESPONDENT

ADDRESS

POST CODE

NAMES OF MEN APPLYING @ �40 per head DIETARY NEEDS

Please return this slip with a cheque for the full amount, payable to G Jerram, to

GEOFF JERRAM, �Haydown�, Little Horton, Wiltshire, SN10 3LJ BY 5^th DECEMBER 2005 !!!!

THE MORRIS RING � RAPPER SWORD INSTRUCTIONAL 2006

Location	Wybunbury, Cheshire
Dates	17^th � 19^th March 2006
Objective	To improve knowledge and performance of rapper sword dances for those that already have some knowledge and to instruct up to five beginners in the art of rapper sword dancing.
Hosts	Stafford Morris Men
Tutors	Brain Padgett and Paul Wesson of Stockton Morris Men
Accommodation	Indoor & Outdoor camping with B&B available at local pub
Numbers	25 maximum
Cost	�49 per head

Please return the attached slip with a cheque (Cheques to be made payable to Stafford Morris Men) for deposit of �12 a.s.a.p and the balance before January 5th 2006.

If you have any queries, please telephone Alan Dandy (Event Bagman) Tel: 01952 810334

THE MORRIS RING RAPPER SWORD INSTRUCIONAL 17^th � 19^th March 2006

PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALS THROUGHOUT

CLUB NAME

BAGMAN/CORRESPONDENT

ADDRESS

POST CODE

NAMES OF MEN APPLYING @ �49 per head DIETARY NEEDS

Please return this slip with a cheque for the full deposit of full amount, payable to Stafford Morris Men, to

Alan Dandy (Event Bagman) 74 Wallshead Way, Church Aston, Newport Shrops. TF10 9LT

Morris Ring Contact Information Up-date

SIDE:

Bagman:

Address:

Post Code:

Email addresses:

Are you able to provide us with a current E-mail address? It does not have to be your Bagman � just someone who is in contact with the Side and can pass on occasional messages.

The vast majority of Sides are on Email, and it is useful for some Formal Notifications to Sides. In recent months we have used E-mail to advise clubs of such things as: Advance notice of Dates of Meetings and Instructionals; Possible bookings; TV & film opportunities and lucrative photo-calls; Deaths of Morris Men [so that those who knew them could attend their funerals]; and Urgent changes to event details or Insurance matters.

If you have no E-mail contact, then you may miss out � and learn of such opportunities and news items from the Newsletter - after the event.

Our E-mail Contact address is now:

It belongs to:

Who is the Club�s: [if appropriate].

Newsletter.

In future please supply (Please tick as appropriate)

just a printed copy
just an electronic version
both

Events Calendar Please include this / these events in the database:

�

NOTE: Contact information provided to The Morris Ring will be stored on Computer Data Base and will be published and circulated to Members and others with a legitimate interest in the information. Please contact the Bagman if this presents any problems.

Please reply to the Bagman [at the address above] � or ask your nominated contact to send an E-mail with these details to: Bagman@TheMorrisRing.org

Thanks.

Bagman, The Morris Ring

RING MEETINGS � 2006 � APPLICATION FORM

2nd - 4th June THAXTED MM Ring Meeting

14th - 16th July GREENSLEEVES MM 80^th Anniversary Ring Meeting

21^st � 23^rd July NEW DATE MENDIP MM 50^th Anniversary Ring Meeting

Please note your order of preference on the form below, fill in the other information, and return the form by the 5^th November to the Ring Bagman, for consideration in the initial allocation. Sides may apply later, but their first choice of Meeting may have been filled.

Ring Meeting	Order of Preference	Anticipated No of Men
Thaxted
Greensleeves
Mendip
SIDE:
CONTACT NAME: