Lassington Oak at War – 2015

1. Armed with our bag of trusty sticks we assembled at Morris o’clock at Prestbury Park Station. Ready to travel back in time we inspected the transportation.

2. Being satisfied the train was sound Ed changed hats and transformed from Bagman to Ticket-man and handed out tickets and Identity Cards (just in case we forgot who we were!).

3. The trouble kicked off when someone mentioned something about Old Bill to Bill the Foreman.

4. Having sorted out the differences between Bill and Old Bill we arrived at Gotherinton Station where we entertained the troops, nurses and general public with a display of our fantastical topiary (or should that be terpsichore!).

5. Having eaten the cheese and pickle sandwiches and drunk all of the water we were feeling tired and thirsty after all of the dancing. We were told by a trustworthy looking man that food and ale could be found at Toddington station. So off we went for lunch (and a spot more dancing).

6. Arriving in Winchcombe our dancing was interrupted by an air-raid (after all there is a war on!). Being good citizens we raced to the nearest hostelry for shelter.

7. Having been revitalised with refreshing and magical brews from the Harvest Home, we danced all the way back to Winchombe station.

8. Having returned to Winchcombe station it was all a bit too much for some of our younger dancers……

9. Having danced some more and managing NOT to fall off the platform, some of the old folk took a rest whilst waiting for the next train back to Cheltenham.

10. Finding the buffet car on the train was great fun. Food, ale and some music – as is the Lassington way 🙂

11. Once back at Cheltenham station some of the side were pure overcome by exhaustion.

12. So, it was with a fond farewll we left the the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway to their Wartime in the Cotswolds and headed wearily back into the 21st century. Thanks to all who took part.

St. George’s Day at the Cafe Rene 2015

An early start was called for as we were dancing with Stroud Morris; the ladies always start early as I believe they go to bed early so as to maintain their stunning beauty and grace. However, this early-ness never translates for the gentlemen of Lassington (as is evident from their LACK of beauty!). Dancing eventually got underway around 8pm. Our assistant Foreman, being in charge for the first time out tonight, kept with tradition and we were six up for Balance the Straw (it also confuses our musician if we start with something different!).

Stroud Morris

Dancing turn and turn about we entertained the small but perfectly formed and enthusiastic crowd with the likes of the Upton Hanky dance (a dance with hankies from Upton….), Laudnum Bunches from Headington, Vandals of Hammerwich (from that well known Cotswold town of Lichfield) and various other dances. Having sung and danced for Landlord Fill the Flowing Bowl, the landlord did just that and supplied jugs of ale for the thirsty dances – which washed down the chocolates supplied by Stroud Ladies (such a sweet side).

Lassington giving it some stick

Our usual session then ensued after dragging some willing (and not so willing volunteers) into our final dance of Bonny Green Garters.
Thanks to Stroud Morris for dancing with us (a pleasure as always) and to the Cafe Rene for being so hospitable.
Well done to George for keeping control and to all who turned out to dance and to spectate.
Last, but not least thanks to Lloyd for the photos.
Next stop we are of to War at the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway.