So Xsighted Morris star at Upton Folk Festival parade

So Xsighted Morris took part in Upton Folk Festival’s traditional parade last Sunday (April 30) and started off the afternoon’s dancing outside the King’s Head.

So Xsighted is the only visually impaired group of morris dancers in the country - all the dancers and half the band have sight loss - and were accompanied by three guide dogs at the parade.

It’s a busy time for the group at the moment.

They also took part in the Mayor’s Peaks Challenge in Priory Park on Saturday and the Well Dressing and Water Festival on Monday.

READ MORE: Crowds soak up Malvern Well Dressing and Water Festival

On Monday, May 8, they will be part of Ledbury’s coronation celebrations. You can catch them dancing next to the iconic Market House at 12.15pm.

So Xsighted’s squire, Shirley Sheridan, said: “This was the second time we have participated in the Upton Folk Festival and again, as a visually impaired group it is such an amazing experience to be accepted alongside all the other groups and to just enjoy the whole thing.

The morris dancers in Priory Park for the Well Dressing Festival (Image: So Xsighted Morris)

“I feel very proud of what we have been able to achieve - we highlight and show the public what visually impaired/disabled people can do when we are given the opportunity to do so, enjoying our life rather than being isolated at home.

“We are also thrilled to be part of our local community, doing what we can to spread fun and laughter at all sorts of events while at the same time supporting worthwhile causes. 

“We are looking forward to bringing our own special brand of exuberance to the Ledbury coronation event on Monday.”

Upton upon Severn Folk Festival took place across the Bank Holiday weekend, with a mix of free and ticketed gigs in venues around the town.

Visitors were also able to enjoy stalls by the waterfront, a huge Sunday procession, an acoustic talent contest and more.