IT was a proclamation that shook the world of morris dancing to its very roots — and worryingly, it came from the man at the top.

Charlie Corcoran, Bagman of the Morris Ring, an association representing more than 200 morris troupes across Britain, predicted the traditional form of dancing will be extinct in 20 years.

The reason — youngsters these days are just too cool to get involved.

Apart from in Horwich, that is, where morris dancing is alive and kicking, with more than its fair share of 20-something participants.

Secretary of Horwich Prize Medal Morris Men, Bob Bradley, said: “We are actively taking steps to make sure that morris dancing does not die out in Horwich.

“We have a number of active younger dancers, from age 12 to early 20s, and although not all of them are able to take part in all events, due to university or work commitments out of the area, they continue to be involved with team activities.”

Horwich Prize Medal Morris Men was established in 1975 and the most notable event which it takes part in each year is the Day for St George, where teams from across the North-west gather in Horwich to perform.

Tom Shallacker, aged 21, from Westhoughton, has been involved with morris dancing for four years.

He said: “One of my friends did it and I used to take the mickey out of him, but then I went to watch them perform and I was really impressed.

“A lot of people think it is strange when I tell them I am a morris dancer, but it is a good laugh and I wouldn’t do it if it wasn’t.”

In a bid to attract more members the team has organised a Community Ceilidh — an evening of traditional music and dance — in Horwich on Friday, January 16, at St Mary’s Hall, Bosworth Street, Horwich at 7.30 pm.

Horwich Morris Men will be giving a display during the evening and there will be an opportunity for those taking part to have a taster by taking part in a short workshop of one of the team’s easier dances.

Proceeds from the ceilidh are to go to the Mayor of Horwich’s chosen charities which are Fortalice and Paws for Kids.

Tickets for the Community Ceilidh are £6 including supper. It is £1 for children under 16.

These are available from Reg Hardman on 01204 655048 or Bob Bradley 01204 840949.