OVER 400 Morris dancers from across the country descended on Evesham with the sound of their bells, clashing sticks, and instruments.

The dancers performed in the town as well as surrounding towns and villages for the 12th annual National Morris Weekend, an event which is supported by Wychavon District Council and Evesham Town Council.

On Saturday dancers visited Stratford upon Avon, Broadway, Bourton on the Water, Ilmington and Moreton as well as the Fleece Inn at Bretforton.

On Sunday the dance performances commenced with a procession of all the Morris sides from the Abbey Park and up Bridge Street into the Market Square.

The dancing continued until 3pm where the side that displayed the best spirit of the Morris were awarded the Evesham stick, which is hand made and individually painted each year.

This year there were joint winners – Ditchling Morris from East Sussex and Customs and Exiles from Berkshire who were presented with the stick by the Mayor of Evesham, Mark Goodge.

The wonderful weather helped the event and brought out the crowds to watch and support the Morris sides.

If anyone enjoyed the dancing and would be interested in joining one of the local men’s, ladies or mixed Morris sides as a dancer or musician then please email valemorrisinvitations@yahoo.co.uk who will put you in touch with a suitable side.