Three amigos celebrate 50 year milestone

Raising a glass: John Dunning, Ron Yates and Peter Ashworth

They have entertained for half a century - the Saddleworth Morris are celebrating 50 year of dance in 2024.

But there are only three surviving members of the original team - John Dunning, Ron Yates and Peter Ashworth - who are still performing the Morris Dance.

And, wearing their distinctive waistcoats, they celebrated with their better halves at the Old Original in Scouthead with a special survivors event.

Said Peter: “We have had 50 years of fun, met lots of very interesting people and made many great friends from all over the world.

"The team have performed in many different countries including Holland and Brazil, and also had visitors from Australia, Holland, New Zealand and the USA.

“It’s been a pleasure to have good pals like John and Ronnie who are full of stories about the fun of the Morris over the years.

“They both played important roles in those early years as treasurer and songster reviving the rushcart traditions.

"Ronnie in particular has taught dance steps to many of the recruits.

"John and Wendy have organised all the famous rushcart badges from the beginning.”

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