Kemp's Men ... are very proud and hugely pleased that Win has been awarded an MBE in the 2009 New Year's Honours "for his contribution to folk music and dancing in Norfolk".

This is in recognition of a life devoted to teaching traditional English Folk and Morris dance and music, and for tireless encouragement and support of English Folk traditions in Norfolk and elsewhere in the UK.  At the age of 96, Win attends the Kemp's Men Wednesday evening practices, and plays for us when we dance out during the year.

When Win returned to Norwich after collecting his 'gong' from Buckingham Palace, the Men (and Hon Men) welcomed him home with a surprise performance of Morris Dancing. This included one of his favourite traditional melodies, The Banks of the Dee.

Peter Mayne, our Squire says:

I am personally absolutely delighted... it is something for us all to savour with Win.

The award brings well deserved recognition to someone who has made a unique contribution to traditional music and dance locally and who has inspired and taught so many of us to love and celebrate our own English tradition and to enjoy through taking part.

The MBE will give great pleasure to Kemp's Men, all those involved in the traditions locally and the Morris nationwide. A heart felt and joyous wassail !

 

Photo 1 -  Mr Norris (Win) Winstone  leading the musicians at Wreningham Festival 2007.

Photo 2 - 11 June 09 - Win at home in the evening sunshine, proudly displaying his MBE to Kemp's Men, who danced for him on his return from Buckingham Palace.

The BBC report is here.

More photos are here.