WHAT could be more typically English than morris dancers celebrating St George?

Horwich became a six-hour advert for England at its traditional best on Saturday with its annual “Day of Dance” in honour of the patron saint.

Local teams, The Horwich Prize Medal Morris Men, the all-female Rivington Morris and Malkin Morris, along with five other teams from as far afield as Berkshire and Wakefield, took part in the hugely popular event.

“The sun was shining, there was a really positive atmosphere and a great response from the spectators who were clapping along,” said Fiona Johnston, of Rivington Morris.

Dressed in traditional costume, the teams processed through the town’s streets, led by the rousing sounds of Horwich RMI brass.

The HPMMM performed the Horwich Polka, their signature dance which won them the Prize Medal in 1903.

Fascinated spectators also enjoyed watching performances of other dances, including Abram Circle, Hindley Street and Uncle Roland’s polka.

Rivington Morris has been going for 41 years and Mrs Johnston said that morris dancing is flourishing.

She said: “It’s not surprising really because it’s not only a great way to keep fit, it’s also a very sociable activity.

“In our group the ages range from teenagers to pensioners and new groups are being formed all the time as interest grows.”

Besides the element of fun, Mrs Johnson also enjoys hearing the traditional tunes played on traditional instruments, such as the accordion and the melodium.

“Morris dancing is also a way of helping to preserve an important part of our country’s history,” she said. “I really can’t recommend it enough.”