Rumford Past & Present

Morris dancing is possibly England's oldest living tradition, and is performed by faithful enthusiasts all over the world, but Essex has a great many sides dancing a variety of styles. The Rumford Morris Men hail from various parts of South-East Essex. The side is named after the old spelling of Romford, and has danced in the area continuousely since 1960. We dance mainly Cotswold Morris, and are members of the Morris Ring of England. The dancers wear blue and yellow baldricks with bull's head logo and black breeches. Straw hats are worn and bell-pads are decorated with blue and yellow trim.

As well as stick and handkerchief dances mostly from the Cotswolds, the Rumford Morris Men perform Rapper Sword Dances from the North-East of England and will often have a sing-around and music session after pub performances.

We can be seen dancing out at pubs in South-East Essex throughout the season (Easter to September), Boxing Day, and at various other functions and tours. Rumford have also performed at folk festivals in Spain over the past few years. The side is often available for 'paid bookings' and an appropriate rate can be negotiated with our Bagman depending on the event's requirements.