I am sure that most people are familiar with Morris Dancing (well at least most people in England).

But I suspect that most people are not so familiar with a form of dancing originating in the North East of England which to the uninitiated is similar to, but clearly distinct from, Morris Dancing - Rapper Dancing.

You can read a full account of the history of Rapper Dancing here or you can just enjoy this little film.

It can get very frantic and is always inside, which can make the tumbles quite interesting!

And, dear reader, I was there.  A couple of Saturdays ago I was to be found squished into the corner of a cosy pub in Burton on Trent enjoying DERT 2013 (Dancing England Rapper Tournament).

If you like folk music then you will probably enjoy this.  Although the tradition comes from the North East there are now teams from all over.

And while it might be a male tradition it is not solely their preserve.

These ladies are called Star and Shadow.  And they won DERT this year.

And if you are wondering about the persons doing the talking then traditionally you should know that the teams had a Tommy and, sometimes, a Betty.  Their job was to whip up the crowd, and in DERT there is still an award for the best Character.  Neither of these teams sported a Betty this year, but other teams did.  If you are interested have a little google and see if you can find other teams with their Bettys running amok!

Truly eccentric and good fun.

Normal service will be resumed!