Buses replacing trains made the rail journey seem very unattractive, so plenty of cars – very quick & cheap. It also made for an abstemious day!
Gathered at ‘Spoons Four Candles, for a traditional cooked breakfast and reasonably abstemious drinking. A leisurely start, we were joined by senior YOB Monty en route to his beloved Reading FC.
First stop Radcliffe Camera with locals Summertown Morris who were very good. Saw some of Eynsham MM whose dance tradition we eyed wistfully. Lots of passing trade and tour groups – sadly an irresistible lure to the Beast who was particularly lively….and irritating for the guides.
Dancing done, we dived Into the Castle Arms, alarmingly efficient behind the bar. Glad to see Wooders Family there.
Second Stop Ashmolean with step cloggers Cornucopia, very good. A very dodgy Skirmish, with blame (rightly pinned) on the Fool. Lots of Foolish blather and bellowing from both Fools, strangely neither driving…. Hon Fool One is a Morris Ring big wig and this was a golden opportunity to ‘network’ with other big wigs. Quite exciting, until we kept losing ‘im!
Into the White Rabbit. Family reunion, Phil from YMM meeting his cousin from Datchet MM. Great pub. They probably remembered us singing lustily last year as the music in our comfy pen was turned up quickly…
Third Stop Oxford Castle with near neighbours and friends Mayflower Morris, very good. Lots of Morris types here…Horse happily trundled round. Where did the very convenient the ‘Spoons go? Off to Broad St for some extras with friends Thames Valley MM. Plus cake and coffee, pasties and pies…
Fourth Stop Bonn Square with Stroud Morris, very good. And very forgiving as our Brute was in taking liberties mood!
A belting day for the Horse who romped at dance spots and through the crowded streets. A belting day for everyone, friendly crowds and some great morris. Two new Ilmington dances performed in public for the first time – a happy and relieved Foreman.
With many thanks to John Harvey and Colombe Delons for some great photographs and videos
Artistes
Mike Clarke, Steve Betts, Pete De Courcy, Paul Lethbridge, Baz Crossman, Phil Goddard, Tim Lloyd, Ian Sutherland, Ian Young, Andy Young in civvies, Ross Healey, The Beast, Monty in Civvies
YATELEY MORRIS MEN 