Hurst Morris Side open workshops

Two Open Workshops to introduce people to Morris Dancing will be held in Hurst Village Hall on 21 and 28 September from 8 - 10pm. The Hurst Morris Side, a mixed group, has been dancing through Hurst and other villages for the past 10 years, and is always keen to welcome new members to learn the steps and play music during the winter months.

Mary Esslemont, one of the Dancers explains why it appeals: "Anyone from a teenager upwards who has a good sense of rhythm and enjoys a sociable atmosphere will find Morris Dancing a great work-out and good fun. We meet every week during the winter to learn new dances and music. We dance the Cotswold version of Morris which includes bells, handkerchiefs and sticks."

In addition to dancers, experienced and novice, the Side would also welcome musicians who play accordion, recorders, flute, drum, fiddle or harmonica. Hurst Morris Side regularly performs at weddings, fetes, pubs and festivals from May Day onwards throughout the summer, and Mummers plays at Christmas. Contact Mary Esslemont on xxx xxxx if you would like more information.

Wokingham district councillors have now appointed all the committee chairmen and it's "business as usual" from September onwards, writes Annette Drake. The Conservative group elected a new leader after the resignation of the previous one! This led to some changes to committee places. Although I no longer sit on Development Control I will of course be able to speak at the committee on your behalf. I now sit on Environmental Services, Community Services and External Relations. The progress towards a cabinet style of system has been halted by mutual agreement between the two political parties. This will inevitably have to be adopted in the end because the Government's legislation to enforce this system will give councils no choice.