East Garston

Monday 6th September was to be our very own Dance Out at the Queen’s Arms in East Garston in celebration of our first year of Morris Dancing. Unfortunately, the day produced the most torrential rain imaginable so things looked disappointing as we arrived at the pub. Not to be outdone, contact was made with Alan and Wendy Money who saved the day by opening up the Village Hall and Social Club for us. Thank you Wendy and Matthew, for manning the bar at 10 minutes’ notice!

A brilliant time was had by all – dancers and spectators alike. As well as the Garston Gallopers, three members of Kintbury Morris braved the rain and floods to join us. We danced our entire repertoire and our audience joined us for at least two dances – we even shared our sticks with some newcomers.

Our newest members felt encouraged by the success of the evening - and ready for the big day – the fete!

East Garston Fete

We had a full complement of dancers on the day – nine of us (seven of whom danced last year) plus Penny and Jean, our support team from Kintbury Morris. Alan was playing the melodeon and George was on the drum.

We danced two sets of four dances and were very well received by fete-goers.
There might have been the odd slip-up now and again, but hopefully nobody noticed!


Photo : Peter Cook	Photo : Peter Cook

There was plenty of audience participation for our final dance of each set, having had no difficulty in persuading people to join in.

We were especially pleased to see our friends from Lumbawakk (another Morris side) who had journeyed from Didcot to support us and who joined in our final dances with enthusiasm. An improptu collection afterwards raised the fantastic total of £81 towards fete funds.