‘Look Sharp!, which commemorated the visit exactly 100 years ago of the folksong pioneer and collector Cecil Sharp, promised to be and was one of the biggest gatherings of morris dancers ever seen in Derbyshire. But it was also a day of fun, drama, music and song, especially for the children of three local schools at Winster, Elton and South Darley , who had taken part in workshops during the weeks before the event.  They morris danced, maypole danced, sang folk-sngs, made large puppets of the morris characters and learned about Derbyshire’s heritage. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to perform their work.

Winster Morris Dancers are grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund for its support.  The grant has enabled us to pass on our dances to the next generation.”

A highlight on the Friday was a re-enactment of Sharp’s arrival. ‘He’ (actor Steve Tomlin) arrived by steam train at Darley Dale station as he did in 1908 – thanks to Peak Rail – and took a pony and trap up to Winster where he visited the school to see children’s work.  On Friday evening there was entertainment featuring folk singer Keith Kendrick and a special appearance by Cecil Sharp.

On Saturday, June 14, over 100 dancers from as far away as Oxfordshire and Essex converged on Main Street to dance. During the day, six teams toured at least Peak District villages on their way to Winster for the spectacular finale.

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