Rural Traditions Kept Alive By Brighstone Primary School

Children from Brighstone Primary School helped to keep the rural tradition of country dancing alive by performing three dances at this year’s Shorwell Midsummer Fair.

The children delighted the crowd with their performances of Pat-a-Cake Polka, I Want to Be Near You and Oxo Reel in the main arena at the country show.

Aged between six and ten, the students worked hard to prepare for the weekend performance by giving up some of their lunchtimes to take part in rehearsals in the lead up to the event.

The practice paid off with a wonderful trio of dances, despite the blustery conditions.

Sadly, the strong winds meant the maypole dance couldn’t be performed – however, the children enjoyed learning the new dance and will get the opportunity to perform it at the school’s summer concert later in the term.

Headteacher Rebecca Lennon said:

 “As a rural school we value being part of the close-knit community and it was a pleasure to take part in the fair – the children had a wonderful time performing and did themselves and the school proud.”

James Harrison, one of the Shorwell Midsummer Fair organisers, added:

“We love to welcome children from Brighstone Primary School to the fair each year; their country dancing is always a crowd pleaser and we really appreciate the effort the children and teachers put into making the performance so special.

"This year was the 62nd annual Shorwell Midsummer Fair.

"The event is run entirely by locals with funds raised going towards good causes in the village."