One of the highlights of January for me that didn’t involve wading through mud in Magic’s field, was the Flagcrackers of Craven annual dinner.
The annual dinner, held before January properly takes hold with a vengeance while Christmas and New Year still hang on by a thread, is always a great excuse for one last bout of excess before returning to work and sensible eating.
Mark and I called on the resources of Grassington Players costume store at Royal Oak Furniture‘s workshops for our outfits. Mine was several sizes too big but I tried not to let that worry me unduly!
The Lion at Settle played host to the event and was a perfect period setting for the theme. The meal was delicious, atmosphere relaxed, and everything ran like clockwork under the competent eye of manager and Flagcracker Louise Vandelft. I would certainly recommend a visit based on our experience.
The Flagcrackers are set for another busy year championing the evolving tradition of Morris dancing, and are always ready to welcome new members. Where many Morris sides feature all-men or all-women dancers, the Flagcrackers are unusual as a mixed side which actively encourages families to join. With grandparents and grandchildren in the team together, it’s a rare hobby that spans the generations and helps to keep the whole family fit and enjoying travelling to weekend festivals together. I miss it!
Anyone interested in joining the Flagcrackers should visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Flagcrackers or contact the Squire on 07772 165135 or squire@flagcrackers.co.uk