Morris men up early to see in the beginning of May

May 1 means one thing above all to certain upholders of a grand old tradition – and it means even more when the pandemic thwarted such activities in recent times.

The Greensleeves Morris Men and their supporters gathered on Wimbledon Common by the windmill at 5.30am to see in the first of the month on Sunday.

The Mayor of Merton, Cllr Michael Brunt, joined them and afterwards they all went for breakfast at The Watermill Restaurant, Merton Abbey Mills, where May Day songs were sung.

Freddy Dunstan, Bagman – that is the chief organiser – for the Greensleeves Morris Men, said: “We were delighted to be back after two years, and to have such good support.

“We are looking forward to many appearances over the summer and also looking for new recruits.”

Pictured top: The Greensleeves Morris Men (Pictur: Auriel Glanville)