PART 2. BATCHWORTH BOAT RALLY. SUNDAY 17th MAY.

We were back on home ground at the annual Batchworth Boat Rally in Rickmansworth, on Sunday.

We danced firstly at Batchworth Lock, then going along the towpath, to dance in the Aquadrome park. With of course, a break for lunch. (Morris dancing consumes a lot of energy that needs replenishing) Later we returned back along the towpath to the lock, for our final performance of the day.

(Pictures are again, courtesy of various Phoenix members & their associates)

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Now at the Aquadrome for more dancing.

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The red in our kit, really shows up like this!

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Musicians, Judith & Alan.

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Back at Batchworth Lock.

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Judith & Dennis

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A couple of scenes of the boats along the canal, at the rally.

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PART 1 of 2. WINCHESTER MAYFEST. SATURDAY 16th MAY.

Phoenix had a very busy weekend recently, with events on both days.

Saturday 16th May, we attended Winchester Mayfest, in Hampshire, with many other sides. Dance spots included inside The Great Hall, where the legendary Round Table associated with King Arthur, hangs. Also outside of Winchester Cathedral, and other areas slong High Street.

(Pictures are courtesy of various Phoenix members, & their associates)

Ready to start, in Winchester’s Great Hall. Note the Round Table on the far wall.

Dancing in the Great Hall

In dance on High Street.

Continuing on High Street.

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Dancing outside Winchester Cathedral.

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Some of the side pictured with the Mayor.

As it says on the flag.

“Taking 5” between dances. Debbie (sitting left). Robert (middle) retired dancer & occasional musician. Steve (standing over him) And Judith, musician on the right.

More from High Street. With Andrew, Ro & Lily helping out another side.

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Wednesday 13th May. We shared a pub outing with our friends Wicket Brood (from Bricket Wood, of course!) There were doubts about the weather, it being a showery day, with occasional heavy bursts. But it brightened up to a clear, if chilly evening. Unfortunately the only audience was mostly us Morris, But that didn’t stop an enjoyable time being had by all.

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Bank Holiday Monday, 4th May Phoenix danced with Baldock Midnight Morris, at their final dance out at Pirton village Maypole. Sadly, after 30 years they are “hanging up their bells.”

Baldock Midnight Morris, in dance.

Dennis & Pam. The two Phoenix musicians that day.

Phoenix in full flow.

A fine hankies flourish by Baldock.

Maypole dancing on the village green.

And another set round the Maypole.

Ian & Jo from Phoenix.

Sticks up to finish.

Baldock & Phoenix shape up for the final dance – “Vandals of Hammerwich'”

“Vandals” in progress!

Baldock Midnight Morris. Side photo.

Baldock & Phoenix, joint sides photo.

The day’s events.

Saturday 2nd May, and Phoenix were once again at in the historic town of Rochester, Kent, celebrating traditional folk music, dance, and a unique chimney sweep tradition. It is renowned as one of the largest May Day celebrations, with the date traditionally being when sweeps had their holiday. First up was the opening ceremony outside the Guildhall, followed by dance spots for all sides, and a Photoshoot, before moving on to various dance spots along the High Street.

Team Phoenix.

We also featured on the back cover of the programme.

A selection now, of various photos from the day.

The Phoenix himself.

The heart of the festival.