Wessex Morris Men will now be hanky-swinging, stick clashing and bell ringing from Charminster Village Hall on Monday nights, followed by ‘après Morris’ at the Three Compasses pub.
It’s a new chapter for the group, established in 1957, after rehearsing in Pulham for years.
Bagman Ray Dyson said: “This move helps to satisfy a desire for a venue more central to the current membership area and coincides with the recent acquisition of two new members from the Dorchester area and the expressed interest of others more to the south of our patch.
“If you want to continue to witness this unique English tradition in years to come some of you will have to, quite literally, step up and become a member of the side to ensure its continuity.”

Ray says you don’t need to be a ‘natural’ dancer to join the merry band. Of course, a rebel spirit, a desire to learn and a love of folk music will certainly help.
Ray said: “The 70th anniversary, in 2027, of the founding of the side is fast approaching and we would like to celebrate this milestone as a still-functioning side. Morris Dancing is good aerobic exercise, not expensive or boring, unlike the gym.”
New members are welcome to come along to a Monday practice evening 7.30pm to 9.30pm or email bagman@ wessexmorrismen.co.uk to express an interest and arrange to be introduced to the side.