Motley Morris 2009
Who are Motley Morris?
We are a black faced "Border Style" morris side formed In 1981, when several members of local Cotswold Morris teams decided to perform dances from the Welsh Borders on an occasional basis. The resulting team was called "Dartford Motley" after the town where practices were held. It was also decided to keep the side all male. After a short time this team developed it's own identity, with it's distinctive coloured jackets and using tunes and dance moves found in Kent. Further development led to renaming the side to "Motley Morris", as motley also means multi-coloured, this name seems to be particularly appropriate to our style. We dance throughout the year at a variety of venues, ranging from pubs to festivals and everything in between, with a number of radio and television appearances under our belts.
We are the resident morris side at Rochester Sweeps Festival which occurs over the May Day weekend. As custodians of 'Jack in the Green' we escort him on the bank holiday Monday procession.
What is Border style Morris?
Not hankies and bells! Our style is more primitive, rhythmic and involves stick clashing. The black faces are thought to be some form of disguise.
For photos, videos and maybe more up-to-date information try
Where do we practise?
We practise every Wednesday evening between October - May at Hawley Pavilion, Hawley Road, Dartford.
We are always looking for new members and if you're interested in joining, please contact one of the following officers.
Contacts:
Peter Hargreaves (Squire) 01634 716751
Jim Snelling (Secretary) 07766 237564
Simon Ford (Foreman) 07793 627757
email: motleymorris@hotmail.co.uk
Motley Morris are members of the Morris Federation.