A Wokingham-based Morris dancing group has been reflecting on a successful year of performances while looking ahead to major anniversary celebrations.
Berkshire Bedlam Morris, one of the best-known men’s Morris dance teams in the country, performed at a number of leading folk festivals and events across the UK in 2025. The group also appeared at local events in Wokingham, including the Winter Carnival and the May Fayre.
While Morris dancing is not generally competitive, members of the team have previously won national competitions for solo and paired dancing.
The group was formed in 1977 and is preparing for its 50th anniversary in 2027. Before then, the team says it has a full programme planned for 2026.
The team’s secretary, Malcolm Major, said the dancers regularly travel long distances to take part in events.
“Each year we try to make sure we take part in a variety of events, both local and more widespread, and we often find ourselves at different ends of the country on successive weekends,” he said.
Berkshire Bedlam Morris includes members of a wide range of ages, from experienced dancers to some still in their teens. The group practises every Thursday evening at the Evendons Lane Scout Hut in Wokingham.
The team is also launching a free four-week beginners’ course starting on Thursday 15 January at 8pm, aimed at people with no previous experience who are interested in trying Morris dancing.
More information is available on the group’s website.
