A newly formed group of traditional folk dancers has received a donation from a local community group.

Cynewulf Morris are a newly formed Morris Dancing group based in West Dorset who specialise mainly to the rhythmic stick and hanky dances of Cotswold origins.

The name is derived from one of the first kings of Wessex, King Cynewulf, who ruled between 757 to 786. He was well known for his connections in the local area, particularly Uplyme.

The Lyme Regis Co-Operative society recently met with the group and donated £250 in a presentation. The cheque was presented to Morris Squire, Bill Davies. 

Currently, the group is made up of six musicians, and 10 dancers with most of the members being experienced Morris musicians and dancers who have the aims of carrying on and preserving the heritage of the Morris tradition within the local community, as well as spreading the word to a younger generation so they can carry on the practice.

They intend to do this with public performances in the local area of Lyme Regis, as well as other parts of West Dorset and Devon.

A spokesperson for the group said: “The mixed side of males and females enables a wide age group ranging from 10 to 77, which includes the hard of hearing and disabled to come together with a common interest. It provides friendship and social interaction which is vital for mental wellbeing.”

Any potential dancers who are interested in becoming a member can contact Cynewulf Morris on 01308 281200.