A BAND of Morris men and women who have been dancing for almost 40 years are at risk of disbanding this week due to a lack of interest from potential new recruits.

Isca Morris, which formed in 1976, needs 12 to 14 dancers at each practice to function at its best, but now they are down to fewer than six at most weekly practices.

Dances often use six people at minimum so without being able to reliably reach that number, organisers fear the Morris men may have to hang up their bells.

Their members at the moment range from people in their 30s to 60s but the group stresses those of any age are welcome and would like to encourage youngsters to join.

The Morris dancing season starts in May, when the dancers welcome the summer at dawn at Caerleon amphitheatre.

After that they dance each Wednesday at a couple of pubs each evening, as well as on some weekends.

Brian Cox, squire of the dancers, said: “Sadly, in spite of the appreciation often expressed by those who enjoy our performances, a declining membership and an apparent lack of interest in this ancient tradition make it highly likely that our final meeting and practice session will be held on November 13.”

He added that “If there are any Argus readers, male or female, who would like to keep the tradition alive and join us in healthy, aerobic exercise in good company” they should contact the group using the following details.

Isca Morris rehearse everyWednesday from 8pm in Old Cwmbran and there is no charge for the fun and friendly sessions.

If you are interested in joining, send and email to recruits@isca-morris.com