Morris dancers face extinction

Morris dancing could be "extinct" within 20 years because young people are too embarrassed to take part.

The Morris Ring, which represents 200 Morris troupes across Britain says the number of dancers is dwindling while their age is increasing.

Charlie Corcoran, Bagman of the Morris Ring, told the Daily Telegraph: "There's a distinct possibility that in 20 years' time there will be nobody left.

"It worries me a great deal. Young people are just too embarrassed to take part.

"This is a serious situation. The average age of Morris dancing sides is getting older and older. Once we've lost this part of our culture it will be almost impossible to revive it."

The Morris Ring is hoping a winter recruitment drive could attract some new younger members in time for the spring when most troupes perform the dances they have been practising.

Paul Reece, chairman of the Advisory Council of the Morris Ring, said: "There is still time for new blood to get ready for the Spring fertility offensive.

"But there is a serious danger that, in less than a few decades, Morris dancing will be confined to the history books."

-Nova

My Old Primary School teacher was a Morris Dancer, Thanks For This