The colourful tradition of morris dancing has been revived in Malmesbury by newcomer to the town, Rose Darlington.

Mrs Darlington, who moved to Oxford Street, Malmesbury from Cheshire a year ago, has formed a new troupe of 14 dancers.

She said she wanted to start a group in Malmesbury because it would be a boost for the town, which currently has none.

If the group is successful she hopes to enter it in next year's carnival.

She said there has been lots of interest from local people who will be taught basic steps by expert Maggie Dyson from Stroud.

They hope to meet at Malmesbury Town Hall for their practice sessions .

Mrs Darlington said: "We have had lots of interest. Dancing to the rhythm is great. Dancing gets to you.

"Our troupe will not be formal. It is just for fun. We will design our own costumes and I hope everyone really enjoys themselves. However, although we have enough dancers we still want musicians and in particular a fiddle player to join us."

For more information, please contact Mrs Darlington on (01666) 825338.