Morris dancers got a warm welcome when they performed in Abingdon for New Year.

Abingdon Traditional Morris Dancers entertained people next to County Hall Museum opposite the market place on New Year's Day.

They also danced in other locations nearby for their traditional appearance on the first day of the year.

READ MORE: Lidl wants to increase size of future supermarket

The group's website says: " Our aim is to keep alive the unique traditions of Abingdon that combine Morris Dancing with the Horns and the Mayor of Ock Street.

Oxford Mail: Morris dancing"These traditions certainly go back to the 18th century, and quite probably the Morris dancing itself to the 16th century."

In another tradition, about 100 walkers set off on a special New Year’s Day activity: - walking the ancient boundary of the borough.

This walk follows the line laid out in the 1556 charter, when it was the official duty of the Mayor and Council.

Following a break, the tradition was revived in 2000, and it has taken place every year since.

Help support trusted local news 

Sign up for a digital subscription now: oxfordmail.co.uk/subscribe 

As a digital subscriber you will get: 

  • Unlimited access to the Oxford Mail website 
  • Advert-light access 
  • Reader rewards 
  • Full access to our app 

About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

You can also read his weekly Traffic and Transport newsletter.