Whitchurch Morris dancers put a spring into Abbotts Barton’s step

Residents at Abbotts Barton in Winchester marked May Day with a lively celebration featuring traditional folk dancing from the Whitchurch Mayfly Morris group.

The home’s garden was festooned with colourful bunting as residents gathered on the patio. The visiting dancers, dressed in their signature outfits complete with bells, sticks, and handkerchiefs, performed a series of rhythmic routines accompanied by the sounds of accordion and fiddle.

The performance was met with warm applause and enthusiastic clapping from residents, many of whom joined in with the hand movements. Staff were also encouraged to get involved, taking part in a dance to the delight of the audience.

Afternoon tea was served as part of the festivities, with residents enjoying a selection of seasonal treats in the sunshine.

Resident Gerald Simson declared the event “tremendous fun,” adding, “I’ve had a really great time clapping along, and the fiddle player was superb — almost as good as me, as I used to play the violin!”

Companion Wendy Horder, who helped coordinate the afternoon, said: “It’s always a joy to bring the community into our home. The Morris dancers brought so much energy and tradition to the celebration — our residents absolutely loved it.”

Auriol Whitworth and Gerald Simson were among those who posed for photos with the dancers after the performance, capping off a truly memorable afternoon.